Is Propulsion Physics Part of Nuclear Physics?

In summary, the conversation discusses the area of physics that deals with propulsion, specifically in relation to rocketry. It is mentioned that propulsion is a specialization within classical Newtonian physics and has elements of nuclear physics if the suggested rocket type uses nuclear reactions. However, the motion of a rocket is purely classical mechanics. The conversation also suggests looking into fluid dynamics for a deeper understanding of propulsion. The concept of using nuclear reactions for propulsion is discussed, including the idea of detonating fission bombs behind a rocket to create shockwaves. The conversation also mentions past projects that explored the use of nuclear power for propulsion, such as Project Orion, Project Daedalus, and Project Longshot. The conversation also briefly touches on Project Pluto, which used a
  • #1
robbie.kpm
2
0
This is probably the wrong section for this question but what area of physics is propulsion physics. For rockets and stuff. Would that be considered nuclear physics?
 
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  • #2
No, the physics of propulsion is classical Newtonian physics.
Apply a known force to something and it moves in a predictable way.
Rocketry is a just a specialisation within that.
 
  • #3
It has elements of nuclear physics if the suggested rocket type uses nuclear reactions. No existing rocket does that, but some concepts do.
The motion of the rocket is purely classical mechanics.
 
  • #5
mfb said:
It has elements of nuclear physics if the suggested rocket type uses nuclear reactions. No existing rocket does that, but some concepts do.
I have heard of such concepts, but I don't feel safe with the idea of being accelerated by carefully timed nuclear detonations.
 
  • #6
But you feel comfortable being sustained and nourished by a huge continuous runaway fusion reaction at the center of our solar system? :wink:

BTW, they also have concepts and even successfully tested nuclear rockets that work on a controlled reaction, such as in a power plant.
 
  • #7
The Sun is not a runaway reaction it's fairly stable and predictable and is 150 million km away - but even then it emits occasional outbursts of matter and radiation which are not predictable, and definitely hazardous to be exposed to.
Having said that though, if a fusion reactor could be be made small enough, and we had a technology that would convert it's output into directional thrust, and the payload could be adequately shielded from neutron bombardment - well it might be runner, but that's a lot of tech which is way beyond our present abilities.

The nuclear rocket concepts I have heard of so far involve something along the lines of detonating several fission bombs in sequence behind the rocket which would then 'surf' along on the shockwaves created. That's what I'm not too keen on the idea of.
 
  • #8
 
  • #9
I had not come across that one before but it does sound more realistic than the shockwave surfing concept.
I did a quick search and discovered that a proof of concept NERVA prototype was built, which although it had some engineering hurdles to overcome these were not insurmountable.
It's not too clear from my quick search as to why the project was abandoned.
 
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  • #10
The shockwave surfing concept was actually surprisingly well developed, but got axed because of the partial test ban treaty. The NERVA I'm not sure either...some political reasons I guess. In the end, public opinion is that nuclear = bad, and therefore either one has a slim chance of being resurrected anytime soon.
 
  • #11
rootone said:
I had not come across that one before but it does sound more realistic than the shockwave surfing concept.
I did a quick search and discovered that a proof of concept NERVA prototype was built, which although it had some engineering hurdles to overcome these were not insurmountable.
It's not too clear from my quick search as to why the project was abandoned.

I'm not sure which ideas you've come across in the past, but here are several:

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Project_Orion_(nuclear_propulsion)
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Project_Daedalus
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Project_Longshot

There was an interesting experiment back in the 60's I think called Project Pluto to develop a nuclear powered cruise missile. It didn't use nuclear explosions to power it, but it used a nuclear reactor to provide power to a continuously running ramjet engine. Though this isn't what you were talking about earlier, it still would technically fall under the description 'nuclear powered propulsion'. If you look at it from that perspective, it opens up some other options that maybe you hadn't considered:

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Project_Prometheus
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Project_Pluto
 

FAQ: Is Propulsion Physics Part of Nuclear Physics?

What is propulsion physics?

Propulsion physics is the branch of physics that deals with the study of motion and the forces that cause it in the context of space travel and transportation. It involves the study of various propulsion systems and their principles, as well as the application of physics laws and equations to understand and improve these systems.

What are the different types of propulsion systems?

There are two main types of propulsion systems: chemical and non-chemical. Chemical propulsion systems, such as rockets, use chemical reactions to generate thrust. Non-chemical systems, such as ion thrusters, use electricity to accelerate charged particles and create thrust.

How does propulsion physics play a role in space exploration?

Propulsion physics is essential for space exploration as it enables spacecraft to overcome the forces of gravity and travel through space. It is also crucial for achieving high speeds and long distances in space, which are necessary for missions to other planets and deep space exploration.

What are some key principles in propulsion physics?

Some key principles in propulsion physics include Newton's laws of motion, which govern the relationship between force, mass, and acceleration, and conservation of momentum, which states that the total momentum of a system remains constant unless acted upon by an external force. Other important principles include energy conservation and the concept of thrust-to-weight ratio in determining the efficiency of a propulsion system.

How can propulsion physics be applied in everyday life?

Propulsion physics has practical applications in various areas, including transportation and energy production. For example, propulsion systems are used in cars, airplanes, and ships to propel them forward. Propulsion principles are also applied in the production of electricity through turbines and in the development of renewable energy sources such as wind and hydro power.

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