Thrust

Thrust is a force used to propel an object by expelling gas molecules at high speeds.[1] These molecules are what causes the object, such as a rocket, to accelerate. The gas is expelled because an engine or turbine does work on it, sending it to the rear of the engine; this generates thrust in the opposite direction of the moving gas (see Figure 1).[2]

Visit NASA to learn more about thrust and different propulsion systems.

For Further Reading

References

  1. R. D. Knight, "Force and Motion" in Physics for Scientists and Engineers: A Strategic Approach, 3nd ed. San Francisco, U.S.A.: Pearson Addison-Wesley, 2008, ch.5, pp.121
  2. NASA, What is Thrust? [Online], Available: https://www.grc.nasa.gov/www/k-12/airplane/thrust1.html
  3. Made internally by a member of the Energy Education team.
  4. WikiImages, Pixabay [Online], Available: http://pixabay.com/p-67721/?no_redirect