SNS 310: Propulsion Systems Basics

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What is the key difference between a ramjet and a scramjet engine?

The type of turbine used

The number of propellers

The type of fuel used

The speed at which they operate (correct)

According to Newton's 1st Law, what is required for an object to accelerate?

Mass must be zero

Thrust must exceed drag (correct)

Drag must exceed thrust

Thrust must equal drag

What is the primary function of a propulsion system?

To produce thrust to push an object forward (correct)

To change the direction of an aircraft

To reduce drag on an aircraft

To generate electricity on an aircraft

What type of engine is commonly used in commercial airliners?

Turbine engine Signup and view all the answers

What is the fundamental principle behind the operation of rocket engines?

For every action, there is an equal and opposite reaction Signup and view all the answers

What is the relationship between thrust and drag when an airplane is cruising?

Thrust must equal drag Signup and view all the answers

In a solid-fuel rocket, what is the purpose of the hollow core in the grain?

To allow the propellant to burn from the core outward Signup and view all the answers

In a liquid-fuel rocket, what is the function of the cooling jacket?

To preheat the fuel for combustion Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of the turbine in a nuclear rocket?

To pump the fuel Signup and view all the answers

What is the term for the gas that escapes from the rocket and generates thrust?

Exhaust Signup and view all the answers

What is the process of changing a fuel into a stream of electrically charged particles in an ion rocket?

Ionization Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary characteristic of piston engines and propellers used in smaller aircraft?

They generally fly slower and at lower altitudes Signup and view all the answers

What type of propulsion system is used on airliners and cargo planes?

Turboprop and turbofan propulsion Signup and view all the answers

What is the principle of jet propulsion similar to?

The release of an inflated balloon Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary characteristic of fighter planes and hypersonic aircraft?

High excess thrust to accelerate quickly Signup and view all the answers

What is the main advantage of rocket engines?

They can operate in outer space Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary principle behind rocket propulsion?

Newton's third law of motion Signup and view all the answers