Heat of objects entering an atmosphere?

In summary, the heat generated during entry into a planet's atmosphere is proportional to the atmospheric resistance experienced by the shuttle or meteorite. This resistance is determined by factors such as air viscosity, density, and the object's speed. Therefore, the shuttle or meteorite entering a planet with a higher density and viscosity, such as a smaller planet with a carbon dioxide atmosphere, will likely generate more heat. However, further analysis is needed to accurately compare the heat generated by the two shuttles/meteorites.
  • #1
randy23
14
0
Does a planet's atmosphere effect how hot objects get when entering its atmosphere? If we had two exact space shuttles entering two different planets, the first planet is Earth while the other is significantly smaller planet but its atmosphere is predominately made of carbon dioxide. Both are built to survive during re-entry. Which shuttle will generate more heat? Any help would be much apprecaited. Thanks

-Randy
 
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  • #2
I'm not sure, but I would think that the heat generated is proportional to the atmospheric (air) resistance experienced by the shuttle or any meteorite during its decent to the surface. If that assumption is true, then we can continue to analyze: air resistance is a function of the air's viscosity, density at various altitudes and meteorite's speed throughout the decent. The meteorite's speed is also undoubtedly governed by how viscous and dense the air is as that determines terminal velocity at various times.

Knowing the viscosity and density distribution of carbon dioxide and nitrogen, we can probably solve for the air resistance and then delivered power to the meteorite and compare accordingly. Quite a task >_>
 
  • #3
mezarashi said:
I'm not sure, but I would think that the heat generated is proportional to the atmospheric (air) resistance experienced by the shuttle or any meteorite during its decent to the surface. If that assumption is true, then we can continue to analyze: air resistance is a function of the air's viscosity, density at various altitudes and meteorite's speed throughout the decent. The meteorite's speed is also undoubtedly governed by how viscous and dense the air is as that determines terminal velocity at various times.

Knowing the viscosity and density distribution of carbon dioxide and nitrogen, we can probably solve for the air resistance and then delivered power to the meteorite and compare accordingly. Quite a task >_>

Mezarashi, thanks for the reply. Just asking but what is your best guess which shuttle/meteorite would generate more heat?
 

1. What is the heat of an object entering an atmosphere?

The heat of an object entering an atmosphere refers to the energy released by the object as it travels through the atmosphere at high speeds.

2. How is the heat of an object entering an atmosphere calculated?

The heat of an object entering an atmosphere is calculated using the object's mass, velocity, and the atmospheric density at the point of entry. This is known as the kinetic energy formula (KE = 1/2 mv^2).

3. What factors affect the heat of an object entering an atmosphere?

The heat of an object entering an atmosphere is affected by the object's mass, velocity, shape, and composition. The density and composition of the atmosphere also play a role.

4. Can the heat of an object entering an atmosphere be dangerous?

Yes, the heat generated by an object entering an atmosphere can be dangerous. If the heat is not properly dissipated, it can cause damage to the object and potentially harm living organisms in the immediate vicinity.

5. How do scientists study the heat of objects entering an atmosphere?

Scientists study the heat of objects entering an atmosphere by using computer simulations, laboratory experiments, and real-life observations. They also use specialized instruments, such as thermal cameras and heat shields, to measure and collect data on the heat generated by these objects.

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