Design Problem: Pressure Rocket + Bike Pump

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In summary, a pressure rocket is a device that uses compressed air to create thrust and launch itself into the air. It consists of a hollow tube with a narrow opening at one end and a larger opening at the other. To make a pressure rocket, you will need a hollow tube, a bike pump, and a launch pad or stand. Safety precautions should be taken when using a pressure rocket, such as wearing safety goggles and launching in an open and outdoor area. It can also be used for scientific experiments by studying principles of thrust, air pressure, and aerodynamics. Potential challenges when building a pressure rocket include creating a secure seal, finding the right balance between air pressure and design, and prioritizing safety.
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bskramer
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im working on a simple pressure rocket for fun, and am running into a problem. my basic design is using a 2 liter coke bottle partially filled with water and pressurizing it by using a rubber stopper with a tire valve in it and pumping it with a bike pump. The problem is that i can only get about 1.5 atm in the bottle before the stopper flys off. if someone could suggest a way to make a release mechanism I would be very appreciative.
 
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What is a pressure rocket and how does it work?

A pressure rocket is a device that uses compressed air to create thrust and launch itself into the air. It consists of a hollow tube with a narrow opening at one end and a larger opening at the other. When air is pumped into the tube using a bike pump, the pressure inside increases. When the pressure is released by quickly removing the bike pump, the air rushes out of the narrow opening, creating thrust and launching the rocket into the air.

What materials are needed to make a pressure rocket?

To make a pressure rocket, you will need a hollow tube, a bike pump, and a launch pad or stand to hold the rocket in place. The tube can be made of any lightweight and sturdy material such as PVC pipe or a plastic bottle. It is also recommended to have duct tape or other adhesive to secure the pump to the tube and to create a seal between the tube and the launch pad.

What safety precautions should be taken when using a pressure rocket?

When using a pressure rocket, it is important to take safety precautions to prevent any accidents or injuries. Always wear safety goggles to protect your eyes from any debris that may fly out when the rocket launches. Also, make sure to launch the rocket in an open and outdoor area away from people, buildings, and other potential hazards. It is also recommended to have adult supervision when younger children are using the pressure rocket.

Can a pressure rocket be used for scientific experiments?

Yes, a pressure rocket can be used for various scientific experiments. It can be used to study the principles of thrust, air pressure, and aerodynamics. By changing the design of the rocket or the amount of air pressure, different experiments can be conducted to understand how these factors affect the flight of the rocket.

What are some potential challenges when building a pressure rocket?

One potential challenge when building a pressure rocket is creating a secure seal between the tube and the launch pad. If there are any gaps or leaks, the pressure inside the tube may not build up enough for the rocket to launch. Another challenge could be finding the right balance between the amount of air pressure and the design of the rocket to achieve the desired flight. Also, safety should always be a top priority, so it is important to carefully follow all instructions and precautions when building and launching the pressure rocket.

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