F2 - SEM2 - Force and motion - 11.7 Space flight

Question 1

Why do rockets have a streamlined shape?

Answer 1

Reduce air resistance

Question 2

Explain the principle that is used in launching a rocket

Answer 2

Fuel burns to produce a lot of hot gases
The rocket pushes the hot gases downwards (action)
The gases exert an upward force on the rocket (greater than the weight of the rocket) to move the rocket upwards

Question 3

Explain why the spacecraft does not need to face its engine when orbiting the Earth

Answer 3

There is no air in space
No air resistance on the spacecraft
The spacecraft is in frictionless motion and will not slow down

Question 4

Explain what is micro-gravity

Answer 4

Astronauts float around in the spacecraft when the spacecraft is very far away from the Earth

Question 5

Explain why there is a metallic heat shield at the base of the spacecraft

Answer 5

When the spacecraft enter the atmosphere to return to the Earth
The spacecraft moves against large air resistance at a very high speed when enters the atmosphere
The spacecraft becomes very hot (over 1500C)
The shield insulate the cabin from the outside to prevents the cabin from overheat

Question 6

What is the function of the parachute on the spacecraft?

Answer 6

When landing, increase the air resistance acting on the spacecraft to slow down to a safe landing speed