Can Air Conditioners Power Jetpacks?

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    Physics
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Discussion Overview

The discussion explores the concept of using air conditioners as a power source for jetpacks, focusing on the mechanics of creating a vortex to achieve lift. Participants consider the feasibility and efficiency of this idea, engaging in speculative reasoning about the physics involved.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Debate/contested, Conceptual clarification

Main Points Raised

  • One participant proposes that air conditioners could create a vortex similar to tornadoes, which could be harnessed for jetpack propulsion.
  • Another participant questions how the proposed vortex would generate upward thrust.
  • A different participant suggests that directing exhaust straight down may be a more efficient method than creating a vortex, arguing that energy spent on vortex creation may not contribute effectively to lift.
  • One participant acknowledges the efficiency argument, indicating some agreement with the critique of the vortex approach.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the effectiveness of using a vortex for lift versus a direct exhaust method. The discussion remains unresolved regarding the optimal approach for jetpack propulsion.

Contextual Notes

Participants do not fully explore the assumptions behind the vortex concept or the efficiency of energy use in both proposed methods. There are unresolved questions about the mechanics of lift generation.

nst.john
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I saw a working jetpack shown on a tv show on the science channel and it got me thinking how exactly we can make the perfect jetpack. I came up with an idea. AIR CONDITIONERS! Bear with me, just as how a tornado is a vortex of cold and warm winds and can have all that speed and strength, we can make our own vortex using air conditioner-like power sources, cooling the air and then coming out of a hole making a vortex, like smoke makes a vortex when hit out of a drum.
 
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How's this vortex going to push you up?
 
The vortex will be shooting down first pushing you off the ground, then colliding with air molecules to keep you rising.
 
I'm not sure, but I think just shooting exhaust straight down is more efficient than trying to make a vortex. You're using up a lot of energy to make this vortex only to have most of its energy be in the direction of rotation and not pushing you anywhere.
 
That makes more sense.
 

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