Rocket propulsion lies at the heart of rocketry, providing the thrust needed to overcome Earth’s gravity and propel spacecraft into orbit and beyond. Understanding the mechanics of rocket propulsion is essential for designing and building rockets capable of reaching the vast reaches of space and exploring the cosmos.
At its core, rocket propulsion is based on Newton’s third law of motion, which states that for every action, there is an equal and opposite reaction. In the case of rocket engines, hot gases are expelled from the engine nozzle at high velocity, creating a force in the opposite direction that propels the rocket forward.
There are several different types of rocket engines, each with its own unique characteristics and advantages. Solid rocket motors use a solid propellant that is ignited to produce thrust, making them simple and reliable but difficult to control once ignited. Liquid rocket engines, on the other hand, use liquid propellants that are stored separately and mixed together in the combustion chamber to produce thrust. Liquid rocket engines offer greater flexibility and control but require complex plumbing and valves to operate.
