Now, let's explore some of the consequences of this equation.

Theu

uterm tells us how much velocity can be imparted to the rocket.That is, if we start motionless on the pad, what is the rocket's final velocity at burnout?Clearly, we'd like the rocket to be moving as fast as possible.

According to the ideal rocket equation

u=vln(MF/ME)

how can we maximizeu?For example, what role would staging play?Why are ion drives a good option (but only once already out in deep space)?