A unit that uses Lagrange multipliers to compute the minimum total mass of an n-stage rocket capable of placing a given payload in an orbit at a given altitude above the earth's surface. Upon completion of this module students will be able to understand: 1) the derivation of the rocket equation; 2) the computation of the velocity increment provided; 3) how Lagrange multipliers show that three-stage rockets are the best practical choice among multistage rockets for earth-orbit missions.
Table of Contents:
1. SOME BASIC DESIGN QUESTIONS FOR MULTISTAGE ROCKETS
2. SINGLE-STAGE ROCKETS
3. OPTIMIZATION IN MULTISTAGE ROCKET DESIGN
4. REFERENCES FOR FURTHER READING
5. SOLUTIONS TO EXERCISES
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