How do the principles of physics apply to building styrofoam planes?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers around the application of physics principles to the construction of Styrofoam planes, exploring the relationship between general aerodynamics and the specific challenges posed by using Styrofoam as a material. Participants consider whether the topic falls more under physics or aerospace engineering.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Debate/contested
  • Conceptual clarification

Main Points Raised

  • One participant seeks to understand the physics behind how planes work and whether building Styrofoam planes follows the same principles, indicating a desire to connect theoretical knowledge with practical application.
  • Another participant questions the relevance of the topic to physics, suggesting it may be more appropriate for aerospace engineering.
  • A participant notes the potential limitation of Styrofoam as a material due to its lack of strength, raising concerns about structural integrity.
  • There is a suggestion that smaller planes might mitigate the strength issue associated with Styrofoam, indicating a possible design approach.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on whether the discussion is more aligned with physics or aerospace engineering, indicating a lack of consensus on the appropriate disciplinary focus. The concerns regarding the material properties of Styrofoam also highlight differing perspectives on its viability for plane construction.

Contextual Notes

The discussion does not resolve the implications of using Styrofoam in plane construction, nor does it clarify the specific physics principles that apply. There are also unresolved questions about the necessary strength and design considerations for small planes.

Geno
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Hi everyone, I really would like to know the whole background with physics dealing with how planes work, and if making a Styrofoam plane is the same idea with physics but just slightly different. I am a college student majoring in physics and trying to start a company somewhat dealing with physics. Like i.e. building styrofoam planes. Thanks!
 
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hi there
welcome to PF :smile:

Geno said:
Hi everyone, I really would like to know the whole background with physics dealing with how planes work,

so being a university student you understand the importance of research ?
what initial things have you discovered so far in your looking around on the net ?Dave
 
Geno said:
Hi everyone, I really would like to know the whole background with physics dealing with how planes work, and if making a Styrofoam plane is the same idea with physics but just slightly different. I am a college student majoring in physics and trying to start a company somewhat dealing with physics. Like i.e. building styrofoam planes. Thanks!

Would this be more fully covered under Aerospace Engineering instead of Physics?
 
Geno said:
Hi everyone, I really would like to know the whole background with physics dealing with how planes work, and if making a Styrofoam plane is the same idea with physics but just slightly different. I am a college student majoring in physics and trying to start a company somewhat dealing with physics. Like i.e. building styrofoam planes. Thanks!
Welcome to the PF.

Please read this: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Airplane

and if you have specific questions about that reading, feel free to ask them here. And the biggest problem with a purely Styrofoam plane would be the lack of strength of the material.
 
Drakkith said:
Would this be more fully covered under Aerospace Engineering instead of Physics?
Good point. I moved the thread now to the ME/Aero forum. :smile:
 
berkeman said:
And the biggest problem with a purely Styrofoam plane would be the lack of strength of the material.

You just need really small planes! :wink:
 
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Drakkith said:
You just need really small planes! :wink:
http://www.gyroscope.com/images/thumbnails/MOTORPLANE-450.jpg
MOTORPLANE-450.jpg
 
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