How fast, on average, does the gas come out of a rocket's nozzle?

In summary, the speed of gas coming out of a rocket's nozzle, also known as the exhaust velocity, is determined by the specific impulse of the rocket engine. It is affected by the type of propellant used, nozzle design and size, operating pressure and temperature, altitude, and atmospheric conditions. The average exhaust velocity can range from 1,500 meters per second to over 4,500 meters per second. This speed is important as it determines the thrust produced by the engine and impacts the rocket's overall efficiency and performance. It also plays a crucial role in the rocket's trajectory, with a higher exhaust velocity resulting in a more vertical trajectory and a lower exhaust velocity resulting in a flatter trajectory.
  • #1
Ralphonsicus
47
0
For example, in the SSET (Space Shuttle External Tank), how fast does the burnt fuel (liquid hydrogen and oxygen) exit the nozzle at its bottom?
 
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  • #3
For a shuttle main engine, about 4300 m/s (if I'm remembering right...). For the solid boosters attached to the shuttle, it's more like 2400 m/s. Most large rocket motors will fall somewhere in this range.
 

Related to How fast, on average, does the gas come out of a rocket's nozzle?

1. How is the speed of gas coming out of a rocket's nozzle determined?

The speed of gas coming out of a rocket's nozzle, also known as the exhaust velocity, is determined by the specific impulse of the rocket engine. This is a measure of the efficiency of the engine, and is calculated by dividing the thrust produced by the rate of fuel consumption.

2. What factors affect the speed of gas coming out of a rocket's nozzle?

The speed of gas coming out of a rocket's nozzle is affected by the type of propellant used, the design and size of the nozzle, and the operating pressure and temperature of the engine. Additionally, the altitude and atmospheric conditions play a role in the exhaust velocity.

3. How fast, on average, does the gas come out of a rocket's nozzle?

The speed of gas coming out of a rocket's nozzle varies depending on the factors mentioned above. On average, the exhaust velocity of a rocket engine can range from 1,500 meters per second to over 4,500 meters per second.

4. Why is the speed of gas coming out of a rocket's nozzle important?

The speed of gas coming out of a rocket's nozzle is important because it determines the amount of thrust produced by the engine, which is necessary for the rocket to overcome the force of gravity and achieve liftoff. It also affects the overall efficiency and performance of the rocket.

5. How does the speed of gas coming out of a rocket's nozzle impact the rocket's trajectory?

The speed of gas coming out of a rocket's nozzle has a significant impact on the rocket's trajectory. A higher exhaust velocity allows the rocket to accelerate faster and reach higher speeds, resulting in a more vertical trajectory. On the other hand, a lower exhaust velocity can result in a more gradual ascent and a flatter trajectory.

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