Hydrogen + oxygen model rockets

In summary, the conversation discusses the use of oxygen and hydrogen as fuel in a gaseous form, pumped into a 2 liter container at 60 PSI. The question arises about the amount of oxygen and hydrogen present in the container at this pressure, assuming a 2/1 hydrogen/oxygen ratio in terms of moles. The attempt at a solution involves using the ideal gas law, but it is not applicable for a mixture of gases in one container. The concept of partial pressure is mentioned, and the container is referred to as a "bomb". The conversation also addresses the safety concerns of mixing the fuel in the storage container, as opposed to the combustion chamber.
  • #1
Cinitiator
69
0

Homework Statement


Could one expect to get a good thrust off oxygen and hydrogen fuel in a gaseous form, pumped at ~60 PSI into a 2 liter container? How much (in terms of mass) oxygen and hydrogen would be in the said container at such a pressure, assuming we have a 2/1 hydrogen/oxygen ratio in terms of moles? How did you calculate the amount in question?

Homework Equations


-

The Attempt at a Solution


I tried to use the ideal gas law, but it doesn't' seem to apply when there's a 2/1 molar mix of two gases in one container.
 
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  • #2
Are you familiar with the concept of partial pressure?
 
  • #3
I think another word for a pressurized container filled with a mixture of hydrogen and oxygen gas would be a "bomb".
 
  • #4
phyzguy said:
I think another word for a pressurized container filled with a mixture of hydrogen and oxygen gas would be a "bomb".

It's a fuel tank. The fuel (oxygen and hydrogen) will be directed into a combustion chamber automatically, due to the high pressure of the fuel tank. No offense, but by your logic, most liquid fuel boosters would also be bombs.
 
  • #5
Also, assuming that we fill a 2 liter container with hydrogen under a 20 psi pressure, would the hydrogen in the said container weight:

137880*2=n*8.3144621*293.15
n=(137880*2)/(8.3144621*293.15)
n=113.137665678

m=113.137665678*1.007947 = 114.036770707 grams

assuming the temperature is 293.15 degrees Kelvin?
 
  • #6
Convert liters to cubic meters.
 
  • #7
Cinitiator said:
It's a fuel tank. The fuel (oxygen and hydrogen) will be directed into a combustion chamber automatically, due to the high pressure of the fuel tank. No offense, but by your logic, most liquid fuel boosters would also be bombs.

Liquid fuel rockets store the fuel and oxidizer separately and only mix them in the combustion chamber. Mixing them in the storage container is a recipe for disaster. Perhaps I'm wrong - I'm not an expert in this area, but it sounds to me like you are on very dangerous ground.
 

1. What is a hydrogen + oxygen model rocket?

A hydrogen + oxygen model rocket is a type of rocket that uses a combination of hydrogen gas and oxygen gas as its propellant. The gases are mixed together in a combustion chamber and ignited, producing thrust that propels the rocket into the air.

2. How does a hydrogen + oxygen model rocket work?

The rocket works by using the chemical reaction between hydrogen and oxygen to create thrust. When the gases are mixed together and ignited, they undergo a rapid exothermic reaction, releasing energy in the form of heat and expanding gases. This creates a high pressure in the combustion chamber, which forces the gases out of the nozzle at the bottom of the rocket, propelling it upwards.

3. What materials are needed to build a hydrogen + oxygen model rocket?

To build a hydrogen + oxygen model rocket, you will need a body tube, nose cone, fins, engine mount, and recovery system. You will also need hydrogen and oxygen gas, as well as an ignition source, such as an electric igniter or a spark plug. Additionally, you may need tools such as scissors, tape, and glue to assemble the rocket.

4. Are there any safety precautions that need to be taken when launching a hydrogen + oxygen model rocket?

Yes, it is important to take safety precautions when launching a hydrogen + oxygen model rocket. Make sure to launch the rocket in a clear, open area away from people, buildings, and other obstructions. Always follow the instructions provided with the rocket kit and wear safety goggles when handling the rocket and its components. It is also important to have a fire extinguisher nearby in case of any accidents.

5. What are the benefits of using hydrogen + oxygen as a rocket propellant?

Hydrogen + oxygen is a very efficient propellant, producing a high amount of thrust with minimal waste. It also has a very high specific impulse, meaning it can produce a lot of thrust for a longer period of time compared to other propellants. Additionally, hydrogen and oxygen are readily available and relatively inexpensive, making them a cost-effective option for model rocket propulsion.

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