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1. On an airplane, the lift force (the aerodynamic force perpendicular to the flight direction) is
used to overcome the weight. On a rocket, thrust is used in opposition to weight. On many
Level 3 : Apply(Sketch)
The structural system of a rocket is like an outer skeleton which includes all of the parts
which make up the frame of the rocket, i.e. the cylindrical body, the control fins, and the
fairings. The function of the structural system is to minimize the amount of aerodynamic drag
created during the flight. The shape of the rocket, hence, plays an important role and so does
the structure.
Payload system is the most important part of the rocket, which carries the subjected satellite,
telescopes, missiles or humans etc. to the required destination safely. Safety is the most
important aspect of this system, so it must carry the object without any damages.
The guidance system of a rocket includes very sophisticated sensors, on-board computers,
radars, and communication equipment. The guidance system has two main roles during the
launch of a rocket: to provide stability for the rocket, and to control the rocket during
maneuvers. One component of the guidance system of a simple rocket is the fins, which act as
the steering of the rocket.
The propulsion of a rocket includes all of the parts which make up the rocket engine: the
tanks pumps, propellants, power head, boosters, and rocket nozzles, etc. The whole purpose
of the propulsion system is to produce thrust.
o A rocket engine has a combustion chamber where the oxygen and fuel get mixed up
and are exploded. This explosion causes a downward thrust, and as according to
Newtons 3rd law, every action has an equal and opposite reaction.
Level 4 : Analyze (Differentiate)
4. What’s the difference between a jet engine and a rocket engine?
A. Jet engines and rockets work on the same principle. They produce thrust through an internal
pressure difference and, as explained by Newton’s Third Law of Motion, eject exhaust gases in an
equal and opposite direction. The main difference between them is that jets get the oxygen to burn
fuel from the air and rockets carry their own oxygen, which allows them to operate in space. This also
leads to a second major difference. Jet engines have two openings (an intake and an exhaust nozzle).
Rocket engines only have one opening (an exhaust nozzle).