Question

Astronauts in orbit are apparently weightless. This means that a clever method of measuring the mass of astronauts is needed to monitor their mass gains or losses, and adjust their diet. One way to do this is to exert a known force on an astronaut and measure the acceleration produced. Suppose a net external force of 50.0 N is exerted, and an astronaut’s acceleration is measured to be 0.893m/s2. Suppose a net external force of 50.0 N is exerted on an astronaut, and her acceleration is measured to be 0.893 m/s². Calculate her mass.

a) 56.0 kg
b) 55.9 kg
c) 56.2 kg
d) 55.8 kg

Answer 1

The mass of the astronaut is 56.0 kg.

Step-by-step explanation:

Given that a net external force of 50.0 N is exerted on the astronaut and her acceleration is measured to be 0.893 m/s², we can use Newton's second law of motion to calculate her mass. Newton's second law states that force is equal to mass multiplied by acceleration:

F = ma

Plugging in the values given:

50.0 N = m * 0.893 m/s²

Solving for the mass:

m = 50.0 N / 0.893 m/s² = 56.0 kg

So, the mass of the astronaut is 56.0 kg. Therefore, option (a) 56.0 kg is the correct answer.