1N22.00 - Rockets

Code Number:
1N22.00
Demo Title:
Rockets
Condition:
Good
Principle:
Action & Reaction
Area of Study:
Mechanics

Disclaimer

Equipment:
Air Powered Rocket, Rocket with Solid Fuel Engines.
Procedure:

Video Credit: Jonathan M. Sullivan-Wood.

Connect the bicycle pump to the air powered rocket stand.  Set the stand at the desired angle.  Insert either the low, medium, high, or super thrust washer onto the stand and position the rocket.  Start pumping with the bicycle pump and when the correct pressure is reached the rocket will launch automatically.

CAUTION: This rocket is capable of reaching 125 feet in altitude.  The low trust washer is probably the one to use in the lecture rooms.  Even then you will probably hit the ceiling.

NOTE: Make sure you aim this at an unoccupied portion of the lecture room!!

The platform may be used to show how a rocket works.  Place several students on one end to act as the astronauts or payload.  Have 4 or 5 students stand on the other end of the platform in a single line getting ready to step off the platform.  As each student steps off the platform, the platform should be propelled in the opposite direction.  Note that the "rocket" accelerates a little faster each time a student steps off.

NOTE: The solid fuel engine rockets can ONLY be used outdoors.  Insert the desired engine in the rocket body and insert the cone with the parachute in the other end of the rocket.  Ignite using the electric igniter which can be found with the rocket car (1H1030).  Depending upon the rocket engine used up to 400 foot altitude is possible.

References:
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Disclaimer: These demonstrations are provided only for illustrative use by persons affiliated with The University of Iowa and only under the direction of a trained instructor or physicist.  The University of Iowa is not responsible for demonstrations performed by those using their own equipment or who choose to use this reference material for their own purpose.  The demonstrations included here are within the public domain and can be found in materials contained in libraries, bookstores, and through electronic sources.  Performing all or any portion of any of these demonstrations, with or without revisions not depicted here entails inherent risks.  These risks include, without limitation, bodily injury (and possibly death), including risks to health that may be temporary or permanent and that may exacerbate a pre-existing medical condition; and property loss or damage.  Anyone performing any part of these demonstrations, even with revisions, knowingly and voluntarily assumes all risks associated with them.