Derivation of Selected Rocket Equations
Digging through my technical archives recently, I came across the derivation of various rocket related equations that I did some twenty years ago. These step-by-step derivations were performed in order to gain a better understanding of the fundamentals behind these well-known equations. Most are from Sutton's Rocket Propulsion Elements. I decided to scan them and put them on-line, to help others who also would like to gain a better understanding of the development of these important equations. As well, I have included more recent derivations of other important equations.Sutton, 4th Ed.
Equation 3-19, weight flow through a nozzle
Equation 3-20, critical pressure at nozzle throat
Equation 3-24 , weight flow through critical section of a nozzle
Equation 3-25, area ratio to pressure ratio relationship in a nozzle
Equation 3-29 , ideal thrust equation
Equation 5-32 , energy requirement to place a unit mass into orbit Miscellaneous
Isentropic exponent modified for 2-phase flow, alternate expression
Derivation of equation for rocket thrust using a control volume analogy Conversion of Burn Rate Coefficient "a" from English units to Metric units Units conversion of enthalpy of formation for PEP, from kJ/mole to cal/gram |