Model Rocket Launch Equations for Successful Launches

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the equations and technical considerations necessary for launching a model rocket, specifically using D-class rocket engines. Participants explore the mathematical and physical principles involved in the launch process, including thrust, impulse, and the rocket's design parameters.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Homework-related

Main Points Raised

  • One participant seeks equations to assist with launching a model rocket using a D-class engine, expressing a desire for guidance on the necessary calculations.
  • Another participant asks about the original poster's math and physics background to tailor the assistance provided.
  • Technical data about the D-class engines, such as thrust and burn time, is discussed, with participants sharing links to resources for further information.
  • Participants inquire about the original poster's familiarity with various math topics, including algebra, geometry, trigonometry, and calculus, to assess their ability to understand the equations involved.
  • There is mention of the impulse and thrust characteristics of the D12-5 engine, with some participants attempting to clarify these concepts in relation to the launch.
  • One participant humorously shares their experience of a rocket launch that resulted in an explosion, indicating the experimental nature of the discussion.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree on the need for specific equations and technical data related to the D-class rocket engines, but the discussion remains unresolved regarding the exact equations and calculations needed for a successful launch.

Contextual Notes

Limitations include the original poster's lack of physics background and the varying levels of math knowledge among participants, which may affect the depth of discussion on the equations required for the rocket launch.

Who May Find This Useful

Individuals interested in model rocketry, physics students, and those looking to understand the mathematical principles behind rocket launches may find this discussion beneficial.

elitemaple
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below are my posts on my homemade RPG i was planning, after endless disagreement for help because of the exploding part i have subsided to a normal model rocket, seeing as how i bought a d-class rocket engine anyway. so, I would just like some certain equations that would help me in my launch, such as y(time or anything of that matter) x(weight) = z(whatever it would equal.) I'm hoping to receive help this time and will keep you updated on the project.

elitemaple
 
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OK, I'm game. First of all a couple of questions:

* What's your math and physics background?
* Do you have any technical data on the D Class Engine (burn time, thrust, etc?)

If you can't answer the second one then I'll do a little digging with the help of Google.
 
thanks for your future help

for your question one, i have no physics background, but i tend to catch on to math very easily, if i was given the equations i could do it and if i didn't understand something i can take the equation to my math teacher or science teacher.

for the second question i have tried to dig information but it was extremely late and i was unsuccessful, i will try again later but it would be nice if you found something i didn't.
 
OK, I think we're in good shape with the tech data. Check out this website:

http://www.apogeerockets.com/

If you click on "Rocket Motors" and then on "Estes" we find the following:

http://www.apogeerockets.com/Estes_Items.asp

I'm guessing that the D class engines are the ones that start with "D" (D12-0, D12-3, etc). They give exactly the info that I was looking for, and more (thrust, burn time, mass, impulse, etc).

So let me ask another question: What is the exact make and model of your engine? This will become important when we come to putting numbers into equations.
 
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i bought a 3 pack of d12-5 rocket engines at hobby world. I hope that helps for the equations.
 
elitemaple said:
i missed a part of your question, for math background i have been in enriched classes and advanced classes my entire life when available

Before I get to the equations I need to know how far you've gone. So, which of the following do you know?

* Algebra
* Geometry
* Trigonometry
* Calculus

i bought a 3 pack of d12-5 rocket engines at hobby world. I hope that helps for the equations.

It does help, because now I know to use the data for that engine.

More tomorrow...
 
Tom Mattson said:
Before I get to the equations I need to know how far you've gone. So, which of the following do you know?

* Algebra
* Geometry
* Trigonometry
* Calculus

I have done all those types of math aside from calculus. I'm predicting that i will learn it in a short period of time, its inevitable to happen in my grade.

and yeah, i saw on that like, d = impusle, 12 = average thrust in Newtons and 5 would = the time delay. i hope we get this on the go soon and when it is finally time to launch ill video tape it then post on a video blog site.
 
Last edited by a moderator:
elitemaple said:
Before I get to the equations I need to know how far you've gone. So, which of the following do you know?

* Algebra
* Geometry
* Trigonometry
* Calculus

I have done all those types of math aside from calculus. I'm predicting that i will learn it in a short period of time, its inevitable to happen in my grade.

and yeah, i saw on that like, d = impusle, 12 = average thrust in Newtons and 5 would = the time delay. i hope we get this on the go soon and when it is finally time to launch ill video tape it then post on a video blog site.


They way I figure it is, if the rocket flys, we know the original build and can modify it with other things... Camera, parachute ect.. :wink:

And any non-idiot teachers can help if we really need it. A30 trig is tought heh.
 
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  • #10
ok, it may seem as though this conversation is between tom mattson and I, that doesn't mean all...oohh...126 or so of you who have viewed this thread cannot intervene and help out.
 
  • #11
I posted some pictures of my RPG plans, but i guess they deleted them, whatever.
 
  • #12
hey I am just reading your thread and its kinda funny i was just launching model rockets off for my physics class today didnt go so well... but my rocket did blow up, that was kinda cool
 

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