Transcript The Mathematics Behind a Spacecraft Launch.

The Mathematics Behind a Spacecraft Launch.
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http://www.nasa.gov/mov/194275main_040_
how_do_we_get_into_space.mov
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How many tanker trucks would it take to
approximate the same mass of propellant
being burned during the 2-minute period?
note: A typical tanker truck can transport about 9,000
gallons of fuel which weighs roughly 24,500 kgs.
Answer: About 48 trucks!
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By the way, 9,000 gallons of fuel is about how
much is needed for a Boeing 767 to fly from
NY to LA!
The Discovery burns that much in about 2.5
seconds!