An experimental rocket is at a height of 5000 m, ascending at a speed of \(50\sqrt{2}\) m s\(^{-1}\) at an angle of 45° to the horizontal, when its engine stops. The rocket is then subject to gravity and to air resistance proportional to its velocity. Take \(g\) = 10 m s\(^{-2}\).
The velocity vector of the rocket, \(t\) seconds after the engine stops, is
\(\mathbf{v}(t) = 50e^{-0.2t}\,\mathbf{i} + (100e^{-0.2t}-50)\mathbf{j}.\) (Do NOT prove this.)
- Show that the rocket reaches its greatest height when \(t =5\ln 2\) seconds, and calculate its greatest height. (3 marks)
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- The pilot can only operate the ejection seat while the rocket is descending at an angle between 45° and 60° to the horizontal. Find the earliest and latest times at which the pilot can eject. (3 marks)
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- As the rocket continues to fall, its speed approaches a limiting value. Find this terminal speed, justifying your answer. (1 mark)
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