Ionized Air Propulsion: Is it Possible?

It works by using high voltage to ionize air molecules and create a plasma, which is then attracted to a charged electrode and propelled in a specific direction. This type of propulsion is limited in its efficiency and thrust, but it is possible to use UV light to ionize air and create a charged plasma for propulsion. However, it would require a significant amount of energy and the design would need to be carefully optimized for maximum thrust. In summary, using UV light to positively charge a large amount of air, then using another UV light source below a funnel to negatively charge the air, could potentially create air flow and thrust as seen in the ionocraft design. However, further research and calculations would be needed to determine the feasibility and potential thrust of such
  • #1
conordee
4
0
I was simply wondering if ionized air propulsion is possible? I don't know much about it but would it be possible to use UV light to positively charge a large amount of air, then another uv light source below a funnel to negatively charge the air creating air flow ( thrust). Can some one please enlighten me? thanks
 
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  • #2
conordee, May I suggest that you answer your own question: "if ionized air propulsion is possible?" You've described a design which looks like it would, indeed, generate some (air flow) thrust. If so, then the answer would be "Yes."

The next question one might ask is "How much thrust could be generated by the above mechanism? You may do the math yourself and discover what you might be able to propel with ionized air. See:

http://www.grc.nasa.gov/WWW/k-12/airplane/thrsteq.html

Cheers,
Bobbywhy
 
  • #3
Why would UV light charge air positively or negatively?

The simplest ion propulsion system is the ionocraft.
 

Related to Ionized Air Propulsion: Is it Possible?

1. What is ionized air propulsion?

Ionized air propulsion is a form of propulsion that uses ionized air molecules to generate thrust. This is achieved by creating a high voltage electric field that ionizes the air molecules and accelerates them towards a negatively charged electrode, creating a force that propels the object in the opposite direction.

2. How does ionized air propulsion work?

Ionized air propulsion works by using an electric field to ionize air molecules, which creates a charged plasma. This plasma is then accelerated towards a negatively charged electrode, creating a force that propels the object in the opposite direction. This process is similar to how traditional rocket engines work, but instead of using chemical reactions to generate thrust, ionized air propulsion uses electricity.

3. Is ionized air propulsion possible?

Yes, ionized air propulsion is possible and has been demonstrated in various experiments and prototypes. However, it is still in the early stages of development and is not yet a widely used form of propulsion.

4. What are the potential applications of ionized air propulsion?

Ionized air propulsion has the potential to be used in a variety of applications, such as for spacecraft propulsion, drones, and even aircraft. It could also be used for more precise and efficient control of satellites and spacecraft in space.

5. What are the advantages of ionized air propulsion?

One of the main advantages of ionized air propulsion is that it does not rely on traditional fuel sources, making it a more environmentally friendly option. It also has the potential to be more efficient and provide greater control and maneuverability for spacecraft and other objects in motion.

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