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The amazing principle of water rockets: Why can water make rockets fly higher?
A water rocket is a model rocket that uses water as a reaction propellant, using compressed gas to force the water out to generate thrust. The rocket works on the principle of Newton's third law of motion, which states that when a force acts on an object, an equal and opposite reaction occurs. Water rocket enthusiasts often use plastic bottles as their pressure vessels and may use multiple bottles to build multi-stage rockets in pursuit of higher flight altitudes.
How a water rocket works
To use a water rocket, a plastic bottle is partially filled with water and sealed. The gas in the bottle is then compressed to up to 125 psi using a device such as an air compressor or bicycle pump.
When the rocket nozzle seal is released, water is expelled at high speed, causing the rocket to fly upward. The duration of this phase is closely related to factors such as the volume of water, initial pressure, size of the nozzle and weight of the rocket. Related.The gas provides a means of energy storage, while the water provides thrust by adding mass to the propellant.
Components of a water rocket
Bottle
Generally, a pressurized polyethylene terephthalate (PET) carbonated beverage bottle serves as the pressure vessel; when forming a multi-bottle rocket, two or more bottles can be connected together in a variety of ways. .
Although this increases the weight, it can extend the rocket's propulsion time and allow it to fly higher.
Gas Source
In the process of compressing water rockets, the gas is obtained from a variety of sources, including a bicycle or vehicle hand pump, compressed air equipment, and bottled gases such as carbon dioxide and nitrogen. But use with caution to avoid explosion.
Nozzle design
The nozzle design of a water rocket is different from that of a traditional combustion rocket. It does not require a diffuser, which would reduce efficiency because water is not compressible.
The nozzles of water rockets can be divided into open and restricted types. The open nozzles provide greater thrust, while the restricted type prolongs the propulsion time.
Stabilization system and landing gear
The configuration of the stabilizer is very important during design because the center of mass rises during rocket propulsion, which affects its stability. Therefore, designing appropriate stabilizers and recovery systems can effectively reduce the risk of damage when the rocket falls.
Competitions and achievements
Water rocket competitions attract a large number of enthusiasts, and various forms of competitions are designed to test comprehensive performance such as distance, height and flight duration.
For example: The National Physical Laboratory in the UK holds an influential Water Rocket Challenge every year, which involves various educational institutions and teams.
World Records
World records for water rockets continue to be broken. Recent records include the world record of 1,950 water rockets launched simultaneously by the Royal Academy of Sri Lanka in 2017 and the highest water rocket set by NPO Showa Gakuen in Japan with a 7.72-meter water rocket.
Hot Water Rocket
In addition to ordinary water rockets, "hot water rockets" or "steam rockets" rely on high-temperature water to be converted into steam, which is discharged through a nozzle to generate thrust, showing another wonderful use of water.
The water rocket is not only a simple demonstration of science, but also a challenge that combines performance and design. When we consider the background of modern rockets and their diverse applications, we can't help but wonder: what other surprises will water rockets bring us in the future?
