Rocket Science and Aerodynamics Quiz

What is a key difference between model rockets and reusable rockets like those from SpaceX?

• Reusable rockets use parachutes for landing.

• Model rockets are designed to land tail-first.

• Reusable rockets land vertically without parachutes.

• Model rockets use thrusters for landing.

How can you find the center of mass of a model rocket?

• By weighing the rocket's nose cone.

• By measuring the rocket's length.

• By balancing the rocket on your fingertip.

• By calculating the rocket's surface area.

What happens to the center of mass as a model rocket engine burns?

• It shifts towards the back.

• It disappears.

• It remains constant.

• It shifts towards the front.

What determines the center of pressure in a rocket?

• The rocket's weight distribution.

• The rocket's surface area distribution.

• The rocket's color.

• The rocket's engine type.

Why is it important for the center of pressure to be behind the center of mass?

• To ensure the rocket flies horizontally.

• To make the rocket spin faster.

• To increase the rocket's speed.

• To maintain stability and correct course.

What is the purpose of the string twirl test?

• To check the rocket's aerodynamic stability.

• To determine the rocket's weight.

• To test the rocket's color.

• To measure the rocket's speed.

What is the challenge in designing a rocket that can reverse its flight direction?

• To change its color mid-flight.

• To increase its weight.

• To make it fly faster.

• To reverse its aerodynamic stability.

What modification can help a rocket fly tail-first after the engine burns out?

• Adding more weight to the tail.

• Using a larger parachute.

• Painting the rocket red.

• Trimming down the tail fins.

What is a safety guideline for live rocket launches?

• Rockets must be painted bright colors.

• Rockets must have a recovery system.

• Rockets must be launched indoors.

• Rockets must be made of metal.

What is one way to modify the nose cone for a tail-first landing?

• Add a shield and ring fin.

• Remove it completely.

• Make it heavier.

• Paint it blue.