Relativistic Mass Propulsion or the RMP

In summary, the conversation discusses the concept of using spinning plates as a method of propulsion. It is mentioned that the plates would have higher mass when moving down and would retain a great amount of momentum when moving up. The effectiveness of this method is questioned and it is suggested that neutrino propulsion would not be feasible due to the light interaction of neutrinos with atoms and molecules. The conversation ends with a correction of "neutron propulsion" and the statement that it is unlikely to be successful.
  • #1
Sariaht
357
0
Plates spinning when they move down and are still when they move up; the plates would have higher mass when moving down then moving up. Should work.
 
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  • #2
How are the plates spun up? How are they stopped?
 
  • #3
They are spun up by an engine and stopped by a brake.
 
  • #4
Sariaht said:
They are spun up by an engine and stopped by a brake.

Okay, then here is what will happen:

As you apply the brake to the spinning disk, both it and the brake will heat up. Since the heating of the disk increases the disk's energy (and thus its momentum) you will only decrease its effective mass by the amount of energy that is transferred to the brake as heat. Thus it will retain a great amount of the momentum it had while spinning while moving up again. Also, the heat energy transferred to the brake will carry the downwards momentum with it and transfer to the ship you are trying to move, and you will get no net movement upwards.

The only way you could get any upward movement would be to radiate the energy away before it is transferred to the ship. But if you do that, your upward movement comes from throwing the energy away in the form of photons, and all you have is an inefficient action-reaction engine. It would better to just directly generate the photons and shoot them out the back like a rocket.
 
  • #5
No, it would not.
 
  • #6
Sariaht said:
No, it would not.
Specifics? Or is that the extent of your argument?
 
  • #7
Perhaps you're right.

Neutrino propulsion then, NP?
 
  • #8
Sariaht said:
Perhaps you're right.

Neutrino propulsion then, NP?

Highly unlikely. Since neutrinos only interact lightly with whole atoms and molecules, you wouldn't be able to apply the right thrust. After all, they could pass through a bar of lead that leads from Earth to Saturn and the neutrinos would barely effect it. The same goes for gamma rays, when trying to manipulate them for a rocket.

Over and out.
 
  • #9
Sorry! ment neutron propulsion.
 

1. What is Relativistic Mass Propulsion (RMP)?

RMP is a theoretical concept in physics that proposes using the principles of special relativity to achieve propulsion in spacecrafts.

2. How does RMP work?

RMP involves using a large amount of energy to accelerate a spacecraft to relativistic speeds, where the mass of the spacecraft increases due to the effects of special relativity. This increased mass then provides a greater amount of thrust, allowing the spacecraft to travel at high speeds.

3. Is RMP a feasible method of propulsion?

While RMP is a concept that has been proposed and studied by scientists, it currently remains in the theoretical stage and has not been proven to be a feasible method of propulsion. Many challenges, such as the immense amount of energy required and potential damage to the spacecraft, need to be addressed before RMP can be considered a viable option.

4. What are the potential applications of RMP?

If RMP were to be successfully developed and implemented, it could potentially allow for faster space travel and exploration, as well as the ability to reach distant planets and stars that were previously thought to be out of reach.

5. Are there any ethical considerations surrounding RMP?

As with any new technology, there are ethical considerations that need to be taken into account when discussing RMP. For example, the potential impact on the environment and the potential use of RMP as a weapon would need to be carefully considered and regulated.

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