Final answer:
To calculate velocities following the separation of a satellite and launcher via exploding bolts, conservation of momentum and energy equations are utilized, balancing the total system momentum at rest before separation and distributing kinetic energy supplied to the two parts.
Step-by-step explanation:
The separation mechanism of a satellite from a rocket often involves exploding bolts that push the satellite and the rocket in opposite directions. For a scenario where a 4800-kg satellite separates from a 1500-kg rocket remains, with 5000 J of kinetic energy supplied, we must apply conservation of momentum and energy to calculate the subsequent velocities. If they were at rest before separation, the total momentum of the system must remain zero after the separation. Momentum before separation:
0 kg*m/s = (Mass of Satellite × Velocity of Satellite) + (Mass of Launcher × Velocity of Launcher)
We know the mass of the satellite is 4800 kg and the mass of the launcher is 1500 kg. Given that the kinetic energy is 5000 J, we can say:
Kinetic Energy = 0.5 × Mass of Satellite × (Velocity of Satellite)^2 + 0.5 × Mass of Launcher × (Velocity of Launcher)^2
By solving these equations, we can find the absolute values of the velocities of the two parts, provided we take into account direction to ensure momentum conservation.