What is Propulsion: Definition and 290 Discussions

Propulsion is the action or process of pushing or pulling to drive an object forward. The term is derived from two Latin words: pro, meaning before or forward; and pellere, meaning to drive.
A propulsion system consists of a source of mechanical power, and a propulsor (means of converting this power into propulsive force).
A technological system uses an engine or motor as the power source (commonly called a powerplant), and wheels and axles, propellers, or a propulsive nozzle to generate the force. Components such as clutches or gearboxes may be needed to connect the motor to axles, wheels, or propellers.
Biological propulsion systems use an animal's muscles as the power source, and limbs such as wings, fins or legs as the propulsors.
A technological/biological system may use human, or trained animal, muscular work to power a mechanical device.

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  1. H

    Improving Propulsion, Design/Aerodynamics, Power, Materials & Cost

    I am doing a Mini-Project on the solar impulse aircraft. http://www.solarimpulse.com/index.php You may or may not have heard about if before, but guess you would have. --- Aim of the project is to suggest ways to improve the project under several catagories - Propulation -...
  2. R

    Rocket Propulsion Homework: Find Thrust & Impulse

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  3. C

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    Homework Statement A rocket for use in deep space is to have the capability of boosting a total load (payload plus the rocket frame and engine) of 3.10 metric tons to a speed of 10 000 m/s. (a) It has an engine and fuel designed to produce an exhaust speed of 2000 m/s. How much fuel plus...
  4. G

    Inertial Propulsion Discussion: Energy Conservation

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  5. N

    Rocket Propulsion Homework: Calculating Mass Loss R

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  6. J

    Propulsion for a Robot on near frictionless surface.

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  7. R

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  8. A

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  9. N

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  10. L

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  11. I

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  12. W

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  13. C

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  14. R

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  15. madmike159

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  16. T

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  17. W

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  18. C

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  19. J

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  20. T

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  21. R

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  22. M

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  23. M

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  24. K

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  25. Astronuc

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  26. A

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  27. Astronuc

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  28. R

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  29. B

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  30. J

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  31. A

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  32. S

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  33. R

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  34. T

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  35. O

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  36. T

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  37. Astronuc

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  38. W

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  39. A

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  40. I

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  41. R

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  42. L

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  43. G

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  44. J

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  45. B

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  46. Astronuc

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  47. Astronuc

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  48. e-realmz

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  49. A

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  50. T

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