Question

a spacecraft that seems to be motionless in deep space is given some type of quick push. which statement describes what will happen? see slides 9-8-25

the spacecraft will move and will not stop until it is stopped by an equal and opposite force
the spacecraft will move and then slowly come to a stop on its own
the spacecraft will remain still because it only works on earth
the spacecraft will remain still due to air resistance

Explanation:

To solve this, we use Newton's first law of motion (inertia), which states that an object in motion will stay in motion with constant velocity unless acted upon by a net external force. In deep space, there's no air resistance or significant external forces (like friction) to slow the spacecraft.

• Analyzing the options:
• Option 1: Correct. Once pushed, the spacecraft will move, and since there's no opposing force (in deep space, no air resistance, minimal gravity effects), it will continue moving until a net external force (equal and opposite, like a thruster in the opposite direction) acts on it.
• Option 2: Incorrect. There's no "slow down" force (like friction/air resistance in deep space), so it won't come to a stop on its own.
• Option 3: Incorrect. Newton's laws apply universally, not just on Earth.
• Option 4: Incorrect. Deep space has no air, so no air resistance to stop it.

Answer:

A. The spacecraft will move and will not stop until it is stopped by an equal and opposite force