Maximum delta-v of a rocket engine

In summary, the conversation is about calculating for exhaust velocity using the rocket equation and making reasonable assumptions about dry mass fraction. It is mentioned that many measurements in engineering are estimates and that GPS guidance in cars is an example. Tether propulsion and hybrid rockets are also briefly mentioned.
  • #1
yrjosmiel
53
5
So I was browsing wikipedia when I encountered:
qB8vCyTfQw25KlsN_gXyZA.png

What does this exactly mean? How does one calculate for this?

<< Adding link to the table >> https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Spacecraft_propulsion#Table_of_methods
 
Last edited by a moderator:
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #2
Find the exhaust velocity, then make reasonable assumptions about the dry mass fraction and use the rocket equation.
 
  • #3
mfb said:
Find the exhaust velocity, then make reasonable assumptions about the dry mass fraction and use the rocket equation.
So it's more or less an estimate?
 
  • #5
yrjosmiel said:
So it's more or less an estimate?
Something cool about engineer. A lot of "measurements" are really just estimates.

Look at gps guidance in your car.
 
  • #6
Note that tether propulsion does not conform to the rocket equation at all.
For hybrid rockets, the mass fraction is critical, as in most cases a solid fuel is burned using an injected oxidizer.
The fuel loses integrity once 80 or so percent have burnt, which kills the mass fraction.
 
  • Like
Likes mfb

Related to Maximum delta-v of a rocket engine

1. What is the maximum delta-v of a rocket engine?

The maximum delta-v of a rocket engine refers to the maximum change in velocity that can be achieved by a rocket engine. It is a measure of the engine's ability to accelerate a rocket and is typically expressed in meters per second (m/s).

2. How is the maximum delta-v of a rocket engine calculated?

The maximum delta-v of a rocket engine is calculated using the rocket equation, which takes into account the specific impulse (a measure of the engine's efficiency), the mass ratio of the rocket, and the gravitational constant of the celestial body the rocket is operating within.

3. What factors affect the maximum delta-v of a rocket engine?

The maximum delta-v of a rocket engine can be affected by several factors, including the specific impulse of the engine, the mass of the rocket, and the gravitational pull of the celestial body it is operating within. Other factors such as atmospheric conditions and the design and efficiency of the engine can also impact the maximum delta-v.

4. Can the maximum delta-v of a rocket engine be increased?

Yes, the maximum delta-v of a rocket engine can be increased by improving the efficiency of the engine, reducing the mass of the rocket, or utilizing more powerful propellants. However, there are physical limitations and trade-offs that must be considered when attempting to increase the maximum delta-v.

5. Why is the maximum delta-v of a rocket engine important?

The maximum delta-v of a rocket engine is important because it determines the range and capabilities of a rocket. It is a crucial factor in space exploration and mission planning, as it determines the amount of fuel and resources needed for a rocket to reach its destination and perform its intended tasks.

Similar threads

Replies
2
Views
2K
  • Aerospace Engineering
Replies
5
Views
2K
  • Aerospace Engineering
Replies
24
Views
2K
  • Aerospace Engineering
7
Replies
244
Views
14K
  • Aerospace Engineering
Replies
2
Views
2K
  • Aerospace Engineering
2
Replies
42
Views
4K
  • Aerospace Engineering
Replies
2
Views
1K
  • Aerospace Engineering
Replies
3
Views
3K
  • Aerospace Engineering
Replies
6
Views
3K
  • Aerospace Engineering
Replies
19
Views
3K
Back
Top