I've asked the question "what is the fundamental equation to find the speed of a rocket." That's what I am having problems with because there are more than one. How do I know which one is the preferred equation used?
The preferred equation is the one that suits what you are doing.
I would go with the impulse equation:
Force*time=mass*changeinvelocity
To find the speed of a rocket, there are various equations that can be used depending on the specific problem or scenario you are dealing with. The preferred equation to use will depend on what information you have and what you are trying to find.
One commonly used equation is the impulse equation, which relates the force exerted on an object, the time over which the force is applied, the object's mass, and the resulting change in velocity. The equation is:
Impulse = Force * Time = Mass * Change in Velocity
In the context of a rocket, if you know the force exerted on it (such as the thrust generated by the engines), the time over which the force is applied, and the mass of the rocket, you can use this equation to calculate the change in velocity.
However, it is important to note that this equation alone may not give you the final speed of the rocket. Other factors, such as air resistance and the rocket's initial velocity, may affect its speed. Therefore, it's always advisable to consider the specific conditions and constraints of the problem you are working on and determine which equation or set of equations is most appropriate.