Question

In order for a spacecraft to reach Earth's orbital velocity, it must achieve a speed of 17,500 mph in 610 seconds after its first stage burnout where it should have achieved a speed of 1530 mph. What percent increase in speed per second is necessary after first stage in order to accomplish an orbit?

Answer 1

The speed must increase by a factor of 17500/1530 = 11.438

So, we need to find x such that

x^610 = 10.438
x = 1.004

So, the speed must increase by 0.4% each second.

Answer 2

Thank you.That one had me stumped, but the way you explained it makes sense. 0.4%