Question

A space probe is traveling in outer space with a momentum that has a magnitude of 3.87 x 107 kg·m/s. A retrorocket is fired to slow down the probe. It applies a force to the probe that has a magnitude of 1.41 x 106 N and a direction opposite to the probe's motion. It fires for a period of 9.55 s. Determine the momentum of the probe after the retrorocket ceases to fire.

Answer 1

Force = change in momentum / time, Force in opposite direction so negative
-1.41 x 10⁶ = (p₂ - 3.87 x 10⁷) / 9.55
p₂ = 2.52 x 10⁷ Ns