human
The expression _v_ zero, which you see in that equation, is the speed which the projectile will have on leaving the atmosphere.
gpt
Just so, said Nicholl;
human
I understand no more,
gpt
It is a very simple calculation,
human
Not as simple as I am,
gpt
That means, that when our projectile reached the limits of the terrestrial atmosphere it had already lost one-third of its initiatory speed.
human
As much as that?
gpt
Yes, my friend; merely by friction against the atmospheric strata. You understand that the faster it goes the more resistance it meets with from the air.
human
That I admit, answered Michel;
gpt
First effects of algebra, replied Barbicane;
human
Finish me!