An Ion Engine Provides a Small but Constant Force on a Spacecraft

Multiple Choice

An ion engine provides a small but constant force on a spacecraft as it moves from Earth to Pluto. Compare the speed of the spacecraft near the beginning of its journey with its speed as it flies past Pluto.

A) The spacecraft's speed at Pluto is the same as its speed near Earth.
B) The spacecraft's speed at Pluto is slower than its speed near Earth.
C) The spacecraft's speed at Pluto is faster than its speed near Earth.
D) The relative speed cannot be determined with the information given.