Topics in Aerodynamics and Propulsion

Objectives:
1. Students will develop an understanding of the factors that affect lift.
2. Students will develop an understanding of the factors that affect the operation of a jet engine.
3. Students will develop an understanding of the aerodynamicsand propulsion concepts involved in aeronautics.45. Students will develop an understanding of the real world applications of mathematics and science in aeronautics.

Focus Questions:
1. What are the factors that affect lift?
2. What are the factors that affect the operation of a jet engine?
3 . What are the aerodynamics and propulsion concepts involved in aeronautics?
4 . What are the real world applications of mathematics and science in aeronautics?

National Math and Science Standards:

Science Standards
Science as Inquiry
Understanding About Scientific Inquiry (K-12)
Physical Science
Properties Of Objects And Materials (K-4)
Position And Motion Of Objects (K-4)
Properties And Changes Of properties In Matter (5-8)
Motions And Forces (5-8)
Transfer Of Energy (5-8)
Chemical Reactions (9-12)
Motions And Forces (9-12)
Conservation Of Energy and Increase In Disorder (9-12)
History and Nature of Science
Science As A Human Endeavor (K-12)
Historical Perspectives (5-12)

Math Standards
Numbers And Operations
Compute Fluently And Make Reasonable Estimates
Algebra
Understand Patterns, Relations, And Functions
Represent And Analyze Mathematical Situations And Structures Using Algebraic Symbols
Use Mathematical Models To Represent And Understand Quantitative Relationships
Analyze Change In Various Contexts
Geometry
Use Visualization, Spatial Reasoning, And Geometric Modeling To solve Problems
Measurement
Understand Measurable Attributes Of Objects And The Units, Systems, And Processes Of Measurement
Apply Appropriate Techniques, Tools, And Formulas To Determine Measurements
Problem Solving
Apply and Adapt A Variety Of Appropriate Strategies To Solve Problems
Reasoning And Proof
Make And Investigate Mathematical Conjectures
Select And Use Various Types Of Reasoning And Methods Of Proof
Communication
Use The Language Of Mathematics To Express Mathematical Ideas Precisely
Connections
Understand How Mathematical ideas Interconnect And Build On One Another To Produce A Coherent Whole
Recognize And Apply Mathematics In contexts Outside Of Mathematics

NASA Presenter:

Tom Benson - Thomas.J.Benson@nasa.gov

Advanced Preparation:

Participants should become familiar with the Website given for the topic.

Grades 5-8: Complete the pre-conference assessment and activity created by Chris Marks and Brian Mears, University of Akron, Akron, Ohio. Click here to access the introduction and to link to the materials.*

The presentations demonstrate real world applications of math and physics principles as applied to aerodynamics, propulsion, and model rockets. They show participants why they "have to learn" graphing, problem-solving using fractions or decimals, scientific notation, trigonometry, rate problems, geometry, algebra, and vectors. Newton's Laws of Motion, forces, moments, center of gravity and the basic thermodynamics principles of energy, work, and power are also demonstrated. Presentations are geared to the specific grade level of the requesting teacher.

Introduction to FoilSim demonstrates an interactive computer program that simulates the lift of a wing in a wind tunnel.

Introduction to EngineSim demonstrates a computer program that simulates the operation of a jet engine.

Introduction to RocketModeler demonstrates an interactive educational computer program that allows students to design and test their rocket designs.

Topics in Aerodynamics, Propulsion, and Model Rockets is based on a Web site called "The Beginner's Guide to Aeronautics."

Topics include:

• Aircraft parts and motion - four forces on an aircraft - relative velocity
• Model rockets - aerodynamic forces - stability - flight trajectory
• Lift - theories of lift - factors that affect lift - curve
• Drag and weight - factors that affect drag - falling objects - terminal velocity
• Thrust - jet engine types - jet engine parts and operation
• Propulsion systems - turbojets - rockets - propellers
• Gases - properties - equation of state - atmospheric models
• Forces on a model rocket
• Optional - as required by the requester

Suggested post-conference activities for Topics in Aerodynamics, Propulsion, and Model Rockets:
Complete the grades 5-8 post-conference activity created by Chris Marks and Brian Mears, University of Akron, Akron, Ohio.*
A post-conference assessment for use after completion of all Topics in Aerodynamics, Propulsion, and Model Rockets activities and the videoconference is also available. Please compare your students' pre- and post-conference assessments and furnish feedback.

Advanced Notice Recommended:

4 weeks 

Frequency of Presentations:

Once a week 

Availability of Presenter: 

Varies 

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