Astronaut and Spaceship Physics Simulation
Demonstrating Newton's First Law of Motion in Space
Simulation Overview
This interactive simulation demonstrates the physics principles involved when an astronaut becomes separated from an accelerating spaceship in interstellar space, as described in Newton's First Law of Motion.
Simulation Controls
Physics Principles Demonstrated
Newton's First Law of Motion
An object in motion stays in motion with the same speed and in the same direction unless acted upon by an unbalanced force. In this simulation, the astronaut continues at constant velocity after separation because no forces act on them.
Acceleration and Force
The spaceship accelerates because its engines provide constant thrust (F=ma). The astronaut has zero acceleration because no forces act on them after separation (F=0 ⇒ a=0).
Key Observation
In the reference frame of the spaceship, it appears that the astronaut is accelerating away, but this is actually because the spaceship is accelerating. In an inertial (non-accelerating) reference frame, the astronaut has zero acceleration.
