Is Space Really Empty and What Does That Mean for Propulsion?

Thread starter CaptTrey
Start date Feb 5, 2015
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Compressed Space

In summary, the conversation discusses the concept of propulsion in space and how it works. The speaker has a mechanical background and is trying to understand the compressibility of space and how it relates to propulsion. The expert explains that rocket engines work by expelling gases at high speeds, creating a reaction force that propels the rocket forward. This is similar to throwing a shoe on a frozen lake to move forward. The expert also clarifies that there is no pulling or pushing against anything in space, as there are no molecular bonds.

Feb 7, 2015

Chestermiller

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CaptTrey said:

As far as empty well, I believe that in time we will find that it is not necessarily true either. 100 particles Per cubic centimeter. Does not sound empty to me.And that is just the particles we are aware of.

This sounds an awful lot like a personal theory to me. What are the rules about threads with personal theories again? Aren't they supposed to be shut down?

In addition, I think we've beat this one to death. I'm closing the thread.

Chet

Last edited: Feb 7, 2015

<h2>1. Is space really empty?</h2><p>No, space is not completely empty. It is filled with various particles and fields, including electromagnetic radiation, cosmic rays, and the remnants of stars and galaxies.</p><h2>2. What does it mean for propulsion if space is not empty?</h2><p>If space is not completely empty, it means that there are particles and fields that can interact with spacecraft and affect their motion. This can impact the design and efficiency of propulsion systems.</p><h2>3. How does the presence of particles in space affect propulsion?</h2><p>The presence of particles in space can affect propulsion in several ways. For example, if spacecraft are traveling at high speeds, collisions with particles can cause drag and slow them down. Additionally, the presence of magnetic fields can interfere with ion thrusters, which are commonly used for propulsion.</p><h2>4. Can we use the particles in space for propulsion?</h2><p>Yes, some spacecraft propulsion systems, such as solar sails, use the particles in space for propulsion. These systems utilize the pressure of solar radiation or the solar wind to propel the spacecraft forward.</p><h2>5. How does the concept of "empty space" relate to theories of propulsion?</h2><p>The concept of "empty space" is important in theories of propulsion because it affects the assumptions and calculations used in designing and predicting the performance of propulsion systems. If space is not empty, these systems may need to account for the interactions with particles and fields in order to function effectively.</p>

Related to Is Space Really Empty and What Does That Mean for Propulsion?

1. Is space really empty?

No, space is not completely empty. It is filled with various particles and fields, including electromagnetic radiation, cosmic rays, and the remnants of stars and galaxies.

2. What does it mean for propulsion if space is not empty?

If space is not completely empty, it means that there are particles and fields that can interact with spacecraft and affect their motion. This can impact the design and efficiency of propulsion systems.

3. How does the presence of particles in space affect propulsion?

The presence of particles in space can affect propulsion in several ways. For example, if spacecraft are traveling at high speeds, collisions with particles can cause drag and slow them down. Additionally, the presence of magnetic fields can interfere with ion thrusters, which are commonly used for propulsion.

4. Can we use the particles in space for propulsion?

Yes, some spacecraft propulsion systems, such as solar sails, use the particles in space for propulsion. These systems utilize the pressure of solar radiation or the solar wind to propel the spacecraft forward.

5. How does the concept of "empty space" relate to theories of propulsion?

The concept of "empty space" is important in theories of propulsion because it affects the assumptions and calculations used in designing and predicting the performance of propulsion systems. If space is not empty, these systems may need to account for the interactions with particles and fields in order to function effectively.