Chapter 9, Problem 92P

Model rocket motors are specified by giving the impulse they provide, in N · s, over the entire time the rocket is firing. The table below shows the results of rocket-motor tests with different motors used to launch rockets of different masses. Determine two data-based quantities that, when plotted against each other, should give a straight line and whose slope should allow you to determine g. Plot the data, establish a best-fit line, and determine g. Assume that the maximum height is much greater than the distance over which the rocket motor is firing, so you can neglect the latter. You’re also neglecting air resistance—but explain how that affects your experimentally determined value for g.

Impulse, J (N · s)	4.5	7.8	4.5	7.8	11
Rocket mass (g) (including motor)	180	485	234	234	485
Maximum height achieved (m)	22	13	19	51	23