MathLiveTsiolkovsky rocket equation
Gives the change in a rocket's velocity from its exhaust speed and the ratio of its initial to final mass. It is used to estimate how much delta-v a rocket can achieve given its propellant load.
\Delta v = v_{\mathrm{e}} \ln \frac{m_0}{m_{\mathrm{f}}}What the symbols mean
| change in velocity of the rocket (delta-v), in m/s | |
| effective exhaust velocity of the propellant relative to the rocket, in m/s | |
| initial total mass of the rocket including propellant, in kg | |
| final mass of the rocket after propellant is burned, in kg | |
| natural logarithm |
About this formula
- FieldPhysics
- TopicAstrodynamics and rocket propulsion
- LevelUniversity
- Also calledrocket equation, ideal rocket equation, classical rocket equation, delta-v rocket equation, rocket delta v, ideal rocket velocity change
- SourceWikidata Q834199
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