Newton's Laws - Conceptual Example 5.2-5

If no external forces are applied, the space shuttle shown will drift in a straight line from point A to C. Halfway between the two points (point B), the engine engages. This produces a constant thrust that is perpendicular to the line drawn between points A and C.

Which of the following trajectories most accurately represents the motion of the space shuttle?

As the space shuttle moves from point B to D, its speed is ...

At point D, the engine completely shuts off.

Which of the trajectories most accurately represents the motion of the space shuttle after the engine is shut down?

Beyond point D, the space shuttle's speed is ...