Question

Problem 6. A spacecraft of mass m is in a binary star system at the location shown (see nextpage). (a) What minimum speed must it have to be able to

escape from the system? Express your answer in terms of whatever variables are needed. You can assume that the stars don't really move as the spacecraft tries to escape. You can also assume that the spacecraft is out of fuel so if its going to escape, it needs to have sufficient speed already. (b) For the spacecraft to escape, does it matter what direction it starts moving in? Explain your answer.

Fig: 1