Unit E | Topic 2.1 - 2.2 | arriving and living in space Flashcards
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Definition of:
Gravitational escape velocity
A speed of which is required to “break free” of a planets gravitational pull
What is Issac Newton’s third law of motion?
Every action as an equal and opposite reaction
What are the three basic systems of a rocket?
- Payload system
- Guidance system
- Propulsion system
What is the payload system of a rocket?
A place in the rocket (usually the cone located at the tip of the rocket) where payload is stored. Must be strong and lightweight
What is the guidance system of a rocket?
A system that maneuvers the rocket during flight
What is the propulsion system of a rocket?
A system that uses a solid and/or liquid to fuel engines
Definition of:
Exhaust velocity
The speed at which fuel leaves the rocket
Higher exhaust velocity = greater motion
What is the purpose of “staging” rockets
Parts of a rocket disconnect during flight to make it lighter
Definition of:
Ion drives
Engines that use xenon gas instead of chemical fuels
Definition of:
Solar sails
A theoretical form of space travel that would utilize photons emitted from the sun to propel sails
Definition of:
Space shuttles
Large spacecraft designed to transport personnel and equipment into orbit
Definition of:
Space probes
Unmanned spacecraft that contain scientific instruments to study space
Definition of:
Space stations
Spacecraft that orbit earth containing living quarters, work areas, and support systems to allow people to live in space
Definition of:
Microgravity
Greatly reduced effects of gravity
What are some hazards of living in space?
- Effects of microgravity
- Extreme temperature changes
- Low oxygen levels
- No natural food or water supply
- Lack of natural air pressure
- Solar radiation
-Space junk - Mental isolation
Why is microgravity a hazard in space?
- Decreases bone density
- Muscle atrophy
- Decreases brain coordination
Why is temperature an issue in space?
Due to the lack of atmosphere, temperatures can become very hot and very cold
Why is lack of air pressure an issue in space
Unprotected human cells expand as a result of no air pressure, which can lead to internal fluids boiling
Why is solar radiation a problem in space?
Due to a lack of atmosphere (and ozone), there’s no protection in space from harmful radiation, which can lead to multiple health issues
What is space junk?
Unused satellites and other man-made debris that orbit earth
Why is space junk a problem?
If space junk collides with spacecraft, it can be damaging and dangerous
Why is water not often delivered to space stations?
Expensive and unreliable
What are primary sources of water on the ISS?
- Astronaut urine
- Astronaut sweat
- Condensate
How do Astronauts deal with their trash?
Their trash is transported back to earth on the same rocket they receive supplies from
What process is used to create oxygen from water?
Electrolysis:
Electricity is used to split apart hydrogen and oxygen atoms
Definition of:
Artificial satellites
Spacecraft put into orbit around earth by humas
Definition of:
Satellite
A small body that orbits a larger one
What is a natural satellite?
A celestial body that orbits a larger celestial body
True or False:
The moon is a satellite
True:
By definition, the moon is an object orbiting another object, which is a satellite
Definition of:
Geosynchronous orbit
Satellites positioned high above the equator and orbit at the same rate the earth rotates
Definition of:
Asynchronous orbit
Satellites positioned close to the earth and orbit multiple times a day
What are the four main reasons humans use artificial satellites?
- Communication
- Observation and research
- Remote sensing
- Personal Tracking (GPS)
