Why is rapid, high-thrust power dictated by chemical energy for ground ascent near Earth?
Answer
The rapid acceleration required to overcome dense atmosphere and gravity is power-limited for electric thrusters.
The initial launch phase demands tremendous power delivered quickly to achieve escape velocity before the vehicle is significantly slowed by drag and gravity. Electric thrusters are constrained by available onboard power, leading to impractically long burn times (months or years) to reach orbital velocity.
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