Final answer:
A propeller functions similarly to a wing, using Bernoulli's principle and Newton's third law to create thrust, just like wings create lift. Sails on boats also utilize these principles for propulsion. Solar sail crafts can indeed be propelled by particles in the solar wind.
Step-by-step explanation:
The statement that a propeller works the same as a wing in theory, but produces thrust is true. Both airplane wings and propellers utilize the principles of Bernoulli's principle and Newton's third law to create lift and thrust, respectively. An airplane wing is designed with a characteristic shape where the upper surface is longer than the lower surface and is tilted upward. Due to this shape, air flows faster over the top than the bottom, resulting in lower pressure on the top and creating a net upward lift. Similarly, a propeller has a shape like a rotating wing and uses the difference in air pressure to create a forward force, or thrust, propelling the airplane. Sails on a boat also employ these principles to generate part of their thrust, allowing boats to sail even into the wind.
When it comes to the propulsion of solar sail craft, it is true that they can be propelled using just particles within the solar wind. Solar sails use the momentum of photons from the sun to push the spacecraft forward, proving that not only traditional sails but also solar sails employ the principles of physics to achieve propulsion without relying on conventional fuel sources.