Question 1

A space capsule with 4 thrusters is severely confused and the thrusters are firing in random directions. Calculate the resultant force and its position along x that will yield the net effect of the thrusters.

Click below to show answer. X

Step 1:
Calculate resultant force magnitude

Step 1:
Calculate resultant force magnitude

Step 2:
Calculate net moment

Step 2:
Calculate net moment

Step 3:
Determine position x of resultant force to produce net moment

Step 3:
Determine position x of resultant force to produce net moment

Useful formula:

Useful formula:

Now that you've mastered this question, you can try Question 2.

Question 1

Question 1

Step 1: Calculate resultant force magnitude Step 1: Calculate resultant force magnitude

Step 2: Calculate net moment Step 2: Calculate net moment

Step 3: Determine position x of resultant force to produce net moment Step 3: Determine position x of resultant force to produce net moment

Useful formula: Useful formula:

Step 1:
Calculate resultant force magnitude

Step 1:
Calculate resultant force magnitude

Step 2:
Calculate net moment

Step 2:
Calculate net moment

Step 3:
Determine position x of resultant force to produce net moment

Step 3:
Determine position x of resultant force to produce net moment

Useful formula:

Useful formula: