1.
Which of newton’s laws best describes the behavior of a rocket motor
Correct Answer
C. Newton’s third law: To every action there is always an equal and opposite reaction.
Explanation
Newton's third law. Applying force in one direction always results in an equal force in an oppssite direction
2.
How does Newton’s third law “to every action there is always an equal and opposite reaction” relate to rocketry?
Correct Answer
B. That a rocket flies because the rocket motor “pushes” the rocket in a direction opposite of the exhaust jet
Explanation
The rocket motor's thrust causes the rocket to accelerate in the direction opposite the motor's thrust. Thus a rocket motor pushes only on the rocket, not on the air or launch pad
3.
What are the three forces action upon a rocket during the course of its flight?
Correct Answer
C. Gravity, thrust and aerodynamic drag
Explanation
Gravity, thrust and drag are the forces acting on a rocket
4.
What are the three major factors that determine the maximum altitude of a high power rocket in vertical flight
Correct Answer
C. Motor thrust, weight and aerodynamic drag
Explanation
The motor thrust, weight and aerodynamic drag are the primary forces considered when determining the altitude of a rocket. Please note that the weight of the rocket must consider the lift-off weight and the weight at burn-out to be complete
5.
For an inherently stable rocket, which statement about the center of gravity (CG) four inches behind the center of pressure (CP). Is this a rocket likely to be stable?
Correct Answer
B. The CG must be forward of the CP relative to the desired direction of flight
Explanation
The center of pressure (CP) is where the aerodynamic lift, due to the rocket being at a non-zero angle of attack, is centered. For an aerodynamically stable rocket with the CP behind the center of gravity (CG), the lift which is centered aft of the CG will create a corrective moment to return the rocket to zero degrees angle of attack. Conversely, if the CP is ahead of the CG the lift will attempt to turn the rocket around so that the CP will again be ahead of the CG. This resultant "tumbling" is characteristic of an unstable rocket.
6.
A 4” diameter rocket with its motor is determined to have the center of gravity (CG) four inches behind the center of pressure (CP). Is this rocket likely to be stable?
Correct Answer
B. No, the CP must be behind the CG for the rocket to be stable
Explanation
The rocket is not stable because if the rocket rotated around its center of gravity (CG), the greater aerodynamic force forward of the cg would cause the rocket to rotate even farther, resulting in an unstable flight
7.
The center of pressure (CP) of a rocket is generally defined as:
Correct Answer
C. The point at which aerodynamic lift on a rocket is centered
Explanation
The center of pressure (CP) is the point on the rocket where the aerodynamic lift is centered. This means that aerodynamic lift, if the rocket is at a non-sero angle of attack, forward of this point is balanced by the aerodynamic lift aft of this point.
8.
What is the “rule-of-thumb” for a stable rocket?
Correct Answer
A. That the center of gravity should be at least one body diameter in front of the center of pressure
Explanation
Keeping the center of gravity (CG) one body diameter in front of the center of pressure (CP) typically allows an adaquate margin for rocket stability.
9.
You are at the launch site and decide to fly your rocket on a heavier motor than you simulated it on. Which statement regarding CG is true?
Correct Answer
A. One can install a motor, recovery system and payload and determine the balance point of the rocket as it is ready for flight.
Explanation
Measuring the center of gravity (CG) by balancing the rocket requires that the rocket be prepared as through ready for flight. It is especially important to check when using heavier motor than previously flown.
10.
What ordinarily happens to the center of gravity (CG) of a rocket during a solid rocket motor’s thrusting phase?
Correct Answer
B. The CG shifts forward
Explanation
As the propellant burns the motor gets lighter and thus moves the balance point of center of gravity (CG) forward. This is why a marginally stable rocket may "act squirrelly" at launch, then stabilize and fly straight.
11.
How can a statically unstable rocket be made stable?
Correct Answer
B. Adding weight to the nose
Explanation
Adding enough weight to the nose will shift the center of gravity (CG) forward of the center of pressure (CP).
12.
What are three methods used to shift center of gravity (CG) of a rocket forward?
Correct Answer
B. Add weight to the nose, make the rocket longer, use a smaller (or lighter) motor
Explanation
Moving the CG forward requires judicious design changes. The following are given as "rules of thumb": Adding weight to the nose moves the CG forward by counterbalancing the rocket. Think of the rocket as a lever; making the rocket longer shifts the CG forward by making the lever longer. Using a smaller (or lighter) motor reduces the weight aft thus shifting the CG forward.
13.
What are three methods used to shift the center of pressure (CP) aft?
Correct Answer
A. Make the rocket shorter, use larger fins, increase the number of fins
Explanation
Moving the CP aft requires judicious design changes. The following are give as "rules of thumb": Adding weight to the nose move the CP aft. This can be accomplished by increasing the area on each fin and/or increasing the number of fins. The CP can also shifted aft by maing the rocket shorter. This alone is generally not preferred because the CG is also shifted aft and the CP/CG stability relationship may be compromised.
14.
The definition of coefficient of drag (Cd) is:
Correct Answer
B. A dimensionless number dependent on the rocket configuration, Mach number and angle of attack
Explanation
The correct answer is "A dimensionless number dependent on the rocket configuration, Mach number and angle of attack." This answer accurately describes the definition of the coefficient of drag (Cd). The coefficient of drag is a dimensionless number that represents the resistance or drag experienced by an object moving through a fluid, such as air. It depends on various factors including the shape or configuration of the object (in this case, the rocket), the speed of the object (Mach number), and the angle at which the object is moving through the fluid (angle of attack).
15.
What happens to the coefficient of drag (Cd) as the rocket approaches the speed of sound?
Correct Answer
C. The Cd increases
Explanation
As the rocket approaches the speed of sound, the coefficient of drag (Cd) increases. This is because at high speeds, the air resistance on the rocket becomes more significant, causing an increase in drag. The Cd is a measure of the aerodynamic efficiency of an object, and as the speed increases, the Cd value also increases. This means that the rocket experiences more air resistance and requires more force to overcome it, making it less efficient in terms of aerodynamics.
16.
For a subsonic rocket, what factors most greatly affect the coefficient of drag (Cd)?
Correct Answer
B. Speed, airframe dimensions, nosecone shape and fin shape
Explanation
The coefficient of drag (Cd) is a measure of the resistance an object experiences as it moves through a fluid, in this case, air. In the context of a subsonic rocket, the factors that most greatly affect Cd are speed, airframe dimensions, nosecone shape, and fin shape. Speed affects Cd because as the rocket moves faster, the air resistance increases. Airframe dimensions, nosecone shape, and fin shape also impact Cd as they determine the overall shape and surface area of the rocket, which affects how the air flows around it.
17.
What effect does a boat tail have on a subsonic rocket’s coefficient of drag (Cd)?
Correct Answer
C. It decreases the Cd by reducing the base drag
Explanation
A boat tail on a subsonic rocket reduces the base drag, which in turn decreases the coefficient of drag (Cd). Base drag is caused by the pressure difference between the front and rear ends of the rocket, and the boat tail helps to smooth out the airflow and minimize this pressure difference. As a result, the Cd is decreased, improving the rocket's aerodynamic performance.
18.
The flight of a high power rocket can be separated into three portions; they are:
Correct Answer
C. Powered flight, un-powered ascent and descent
Explanation
The correct answer is "Powered flight, un-powered ascent and descent". This explanation is based on the understanding of how a high power rocket operates during its flight. During the powered flight phase, the rocket's engines are ignited and provide thrust to propel the rocket upward. Once the engines burn out, the rocket continues to ascend due to its momentum, entering the un-powered ascent phase. Finally, during the descent phase, the rocket descends back to the ground without any active propulsion. Therefore, the flight of a high power rocket can be divided into these three portions.
19.
Which describes the thrust curve of a regressive motor burn?
Correct Answer
A. A high initial thrust relative to the ending thrust of the motor
Explanation
A regressive motor burn refers to a type of rocket motor burn where the thrust decreases over time. In this case, the correct answer states that the thrust curve of a regressive motor burn has a high initial thrust relative to the ending thrust of the motor. This means that the motor starts with a strong initial thrust and gradually decreases in thrust as it burns.
20.
Which describes the thrust curve of a progressive motor?
Correct Answer
B. A general increase in thrust during the burn
Explanation
A progressive motor is designed to increase its thrust as the burn progresses. This means that as the motor burns, the thrust it produces gradually increases rather than decreases or stays the same. This type of thrust curve allows for a more efficient and controlled acceleration during the burn, making it suitable for applications that require a gradual increase in thrust.
21.
A bates grain has an essentially neutral thrust curve because:
Correct Answer
B. The area of burning propellant remains relatively constant
Explanation
The correct answer is that the area of burning propellant remains relatively constant. This means that as the propellant burns, the surface area of the burning propellant does not change significantly. This results in a thrust curve that is essentially neutral, meaning that the thrust produced remains relatively constant throughout the burn time. This is in contrast to other types of thrust curves, such as increasing or decreasing thrust curves, where the thrust produced changes significantly over time.
22.
What is the function of the motor liner and the O-ring seals in a solid rocket motor?
Correct Answer
C. To keep the hot gasses of the motor from burning or melting the motor case
Explanation
The function of the motor liner and the O-ring seals in a solid rocket motor is to keep the hot gases of the motor from burning or melting the motor case. These components act as a barrier, preventing the intense heat and pressure generated during ignition from damaging the structural integrity of the motor case. Without the motor liner and O-ring seals, the motor case would be susceptible to burning or melting, which could lead to catastrophic failure of the rocket motor.
23.
What is the most common oxidizer in commercially available high power composite solid rocket motors?
Correct Answer
A. Ammonium Perchlorate
Explanation
Ammonium perchlorate is the most common oxidizer in commercially available high power composite solid rocket motors. It is widely used due to its high oxygen content and stability. Ammonium perchlorate provides the necessary oxygen for the combustion process, allowing the rocket motor to generate thrust. It is a highly effective oxidizer and has been extensively tested and proven to be reliable and safe for use in solid rocket motors.
24.
What is NH4ClO4?
Correct Answer
A. Ammonium Perchlorate
Explanation
NH4ClO4 is the chemical formula for Ammonium Perchlorate. It is a white crystalline solid compound that is highly soluble in water. It is commonly used as an oxidizer in rocket propellants, fireworks, and airbag inflators. Ammonium Perchlorate is a strong oxidizing agent and can release oxygen when heated, making it suitable for various pyrotechnic applications.
25.
A small hole is typically drilled near the top of a high power rockets airframe, below the nose cone or payload section. Why?
Correct Answer
C. The hole vents internal air pressure as the rocket gains altitude to prevent premature separation
Explanation
The correct answer is that the hole vents internal air pressure as the rocket gains altitude to prevent premature separation. As the rocket ascends, the air pressure inside the airframe increases. If this pressure is not released, it can cause the rocket to prematurely separate or even explode. By drilling a small hole near the top of the airframe, the excess air pressure can escape, ensuring that the rocket remains intact and stable during flight.
26.
What happens when the injector orifice in an ideal hybrid rocket motor is made smaller (assuming the oxidizer weight stays the same)?
Correct Answer
C. The total impulse stays the same and the average thrust decreases
Explanation
When the injector orifice in an ideal hybrid rocket motor is made smaller, the total impulse generated by the motor remains the same. However, the average thrust decreases. This is because a smaller injector orifice restricts the flow of oxidizer into the combustion chamber, reducing the amount of propellant available for combustion. As a result, the average thrust produced by the motor decreases.
27.
What happens when the injector orifice in an ideal hybrid rocket motor is increase in diameter (assume the oxidizer weight stays the same)?
Correct Answer
B. The total impulse stays the same and the average thrust increases
Explanation
When the injector orifice in an ideal hybrid rocket motor is increased in diameter, the total impulse stays the same because the oxidizer weight remains constant. However, the average thrust increases because the larger orifice allows for a greater flow rate of oxidizer, resulting in a higher average thrust.
28.
What is the oxidizer most commonly used in commercial hybrid rocket motor?
Correct Answer
A. N2O
Explanation
N2O, also known as nitrous oxide or laughing gas, is the oxidizer most commonly used in commercial hybrid rocket motors. It is preferred due to its stability, ease of handling, and high performance characteristics. N2O is a self-pressurizing oxidizer, meaning it does not require a separate tank or pressurization system. It is also non-toxic and can be stored as a liquid at room temperature, making it a safe and practical choice for commercial applications.
29.
What is the nominal tank pressure of a nitrous oxide hybrid motor at 75F?
Correct Answer
B. 750 psi
Explanation
The nominal tank pressure of a nitrous oxide hybrid motor at 75F is 750 psi. This means that the pressure inside the tank is expected to be around 750 pounds per square inch at a temperature of 75 degrees Fahrenheit.
30.
Above what temperature does pressurized nitrous oxide change to a gas?
Correct Answer
A. 97 F
Explanation
Pressurized nitrous oxide changes to a gas above 97°F.
31.
A rocket with a motor cluster consisting of a central composite motor and four black powder motors, using five identical igniters:
Correct Answer
C. Will result in the black powder motors starting first followed by the central composite motor
Explanation
The correct answer is that the black powder motors will start first followed by the central composite motor. This is because black powder motors typically have a faster ignition time compared to composite motors. Therefore, when the igniters are activated simultaneously, the black powder motors will ignite and start burning before the composite motor.
32.
What typically happens to a marginally stable rocket with a hybrid motor during the thrusting phase?
Correct Answer
C. The rocket may become less stable
Explanation
During the thrusting phase, a marginally stable rocket with a hybrid motor may become less stable. This is because the thrust generated by the motor can cause changes in the rocket's center of gravity and center of pressure. If the center of gravity shifts too far forward or if the center of pressure moves rearward, the rocket's stability can be compromised. This can result in increased wobbling or even loss of control during flight.
33.
In general terms, the specific impulse of a rocket motor is:
Correct Answer
B. The total impulse divided by unit weight of propellant
Explanation
The specific impulse of a rocket motor is the total impulse divided by the unit weight of the propellant. This means that it measures the efficiency of the rocket motor in terms of how much thrust it can produce per unit of propellant. A higher specific impulse indicates a more efficient motor, as it can generate more thrust for a given amount of propellant.
34.
In general terms, the total impulse of a rocket motor can be described as:
Correct Answer
A. The product of the average motor thrust and burn time
Explanation
The correct answer is the product of the average motor thrust and burn time. This is because the total impulse of a rocket motor is determined by how much force the motor produces (thrust) and how long it produces that force (burn time). By multiplying these two values together, we can calculate the total impulse generated by the motor.
35.
The average thrust of a rocket motor is 100 Newtons and the burn time is 4 seconds. What is the total impulse?
Correct Answer
B. 400 Newton-seconds
Explanation
The total impulse of a rocket motor can be calculated by multiplying the average thrust by the burn time. In this case, the average thrust is given as 100 Newtons and the burn time is 4 seconds. Therefore, the total impulse can be calculated as 100 Newtons * 4 seconds = 400 Newton-seconds.
36.
Which of the motors listed below has the highest total impulse?
Correct Answer
C. K200
Explanation
The K200 motor has the highest total impulse among the listed motors. Total impulse is a measure of the total energy a motor can produce, and it is calculated by multiplying the average thrust of the motor by the burn time. Since the K200 motor has a higher average thrust and burn time compared to the J200 and J400 motors, it results in a higher total impulse.
37.
Which of the motors listed below has the highest average thrust?
Correct Answer
B. J400
Explanation
The J400 motor has the highest average thrust among the motors listed.
38.
What is the difference between a J640 and j320 high power rocket motor (assume full 1280 Newton-second J motors)?
Correct Answer
C. The J640 burns out twice as fast as the J320
Explanation
The J640 burns out twice as fast as the J320. This means that the J640 motor will reach its burnout point in half the time it takes for the J320 motor to burn out. The burnout time is a measure of how long the motor can sustain its thrust before it exhausts all its propellant. Therefore, the J640 motor will have a shorter burn time compared to the J320 motor.
39.
Which of the following has a total impulse (It) in the J motor range?
Correct Answer
B. It = 1000 Newton-seconds
Explanation
The correct answer is It = 1000 Newton-seconds. This is because the question is asking for the total impulse in the J motor range, and the only option that falls within that range is 1000 Newton-seconds.
40.
What is a Newton?
Correct Answer
C. The amount of force required to accelerate one kg one meter per second per second
Explanation
A Newton is the amount of force required to accelerate one kg one meter per second per second.
41.
What does the motor designation I220-8 mean?
Correct Answer
C. The motor has between 320-640 N-s of impulse, an average thrust of 220 Newtons, with 8 seconds between motor burn-out and ejection
Explanation
The motor designation I220-8 indicates that the motor has an impulse between 320-640 N-s, which refers to the total amount of force exerted by the motor over time. The average thrust of the motor is 220 Newtons, which is the average force exerted by the motor during operation. There is an 8-second delay between the motor burn-out and ejection, indicating the time delay before the motor completely stops functioning and the ejection process begins.
42.
Rocket A is descending at 10 feet per second, rocket B weights the same but is descending at 20 feet per second. Which statement is true?
Correct Answer
C. Rocket B has four times the kinetic energy of rocket A
Explanation
The kinetic energy of an object is given by the formula KE = 1/2 mv^2, where m is the mass and v is the velocity. Since both rockets have the same mass, the only difference is their velocities. Rocket B is descending at twice the speed of Rocket A, so its velocity is 20 feet per second compared to Rocket A's 10 feet per second. Plugging these values into the formula, we find that Rocket B has four times the kinetic energy of Rocket A.
43.
Rocket A weighs twice as much as rocket B. Both are descending at 20 feet per second. Which statement is true?
Correct Answer
B. Rocket A has twice the kinetic energy of rocket B.
Explanation
The kinetic energy of an object is given by the equation KE = 0.5 * m * v^2, where m is the mass of the object and v is its velocity. In this case, Rocket A weighs twice as much as Rocket B, so its mass is twice that of Rocket B. Since both rockets are descending at the same velocity, the velocity term in the equation is the same for both rockets. Therefore, Rocket A has twice the mass of Rocket B, resulting in twice the kinetic energy.
44.
What is the purpose of the launch rod, rail or tower?
Correct Answer
C. Both a and b
Explanation
The purpose of the launch rod, rail, or tower is to serve both functions mentioned in options a and b. It keeps the rocket pointing in the right direction before flight, ensuring that it takes off in the desired trajectory. Additionally, it helps control the rocket's flight for a sufficient duration to achieve aerodynamic stability. Therefore, the launch rod, rail, or tower fulfills both purposes simultaneously.
45.
What is the purpose of a launch lug?
Correct Answer
B. To guide the rocket along the launch rod or rail
Explanation
A launch lug serves the purpose of guiding the rocket along the launch rod or rail. It is a small tube or rod attached to the rocket's body, which slides onto the launch rod or rail during liftoff. This helps to keep the rocket stable and prevents it from veering off course during the initial stages of flight. By ensuring a straight and controlled ascent, the launch lug plays a crucial role in the safe and successful launch of the rocket.
46.
For a cluster rocket, which construction technique will minimize the effect of one motor failing to ignite?
Correct Answer
A. Make the holes in the forward centering ring slightly closer to the rocket’s centerline than those of the aft centering right
Explanation
By making the holes in the forward centering ring slightly closer to the rocket's centerline than those of the aft centering ring, the effect of one motor failing to ignite can be minimized. This construction technique ensures that the rocket's balance and stability are maintained even if one motor fails to ignite. By shifting the center of gravity slightly towards the centerline, the rocket will be less likely to veer off course or become unstable in the event of a motor failure.
47.
What can happen is all the motors of a cluster do not ignite at launch?
Correct Answer
B. The rocket may not fly straight
Explanation
If all the motors of a cluster do not ignite at launch, it can cause the rocket to lose balance and stability. Without the thrust from all motors, the rocket may veer off course and deviate from its intended flight path. This can result in an unstable and unpredictable trajectory, causing the rocket to not fly straight.
48.
What is a shred?
Correct Answer
A. A failure of the rocket air frame during boost resulting in destruction of the rocket
Explanation
The correct answer is a failure of the rocket air frame during boost resulting in destruction of the rocket. This means that a shred refers to the breaking or tearing apart of the rocket's air frame while it is in the process of boosting. This failure is severe enough to cause the complete destruction of the rocket. It could be due to structural weaknesses, excessive forces, or other factors that cause the rocket's structure to fail under the stress of the boost phase.
49.
What is a cato?
Correct Answer
C. A failure of the motor causing flight termination
Explanation
The correct answer is a failure of the motor causing flight termination. This means that a cato refers to a failure of the rocket motor, which leads to the termination of the flight. It suggests that the motor malfunctioned or experienced a catastrophic failure, causing the rocket to stop functioning and the flight to be terminated.
50.
What is the primary requirement for the rocket motor ignitor?
Correct Answer
A. It must transfer Sufficient heat to the propellant to assure ignition
Explanation
The primary requirement for the rocket motor ignitor is to transfer sufficient heat to the propellant to assure ignition. This is because the ignitor needs to generate enough heat to initiate the combustion process in the propellant, which in turn creates the necessary thrust for the rocket to take off. Without sufficient heat transfer, the propellant may not ignite properly, leading to a failed launch.