Question

Read this excerpt from "The Race to Space: Countdown to Liftoff.” Early rockets were based on a simple concept: an aerodynamic cylinder with two fuel tanks, each with a reactive substance that once combined and ignited would create a chemical reaction. The resulting explosion would be funneled downward to create enough lift to compensate for the rocket's mass and propel it upward. Simple, right? The main subject of this excerpt is about how early rockets were based on simple concepts. how scientists study aerodynamics and rocket propulsion how reactive substances mix together and create an explosion. how scientists should protect astronauts from the resulting explosion of a rocket

Answer 1

The excerpt discusses the simplistic fundamental concept behind early rockets which relies on chemical reactions for propulsion, outlined by principles of chemistry and Newton's third law of motion.

Step-by-step explanation:

The main subject of the excerpt provided is about how early rockets were based on simple concepts of propulsion and lift. These principles are grounded in chemistry and physics, particularly within the reaction between fuel components to create thrust. For example, the Space Shuttle's rockets utilized a chemical reaction of combining liquid hydrogen and liquid oxygen to produce water, while solid rocket boosters contained a mixture of ammonium perchlorate and powdered aluminum, producing aluminum oxide, water, nitrogen gas, and hydrogen chloride. These chemical reactions generate gases that, when expelled, create the thrust needed for the rocket to lift off and maneuver in space, as explained by Newton's third law of motion.

Rockets and Chemical Reactions

Rockets move forward by expelling gas backward at high velocity. This action-reaction is known as thrust and is essential for rocket propulsion. The balanced chemical equations, careful measurement of reactants, and the stoichiometry involved are important considerations in the success of these rocket propulsions systems. Matter ejected from the rocket produces a reaction force on the rocket, propelling it forward. This concept applies universally, whether to small fireworks or large spacecraft heading to the Moon. Chemical reactions are at the heart of this process, turning fuel into gas and generating the necessary thrust.