Ion Engine Simulation
Ion engines are an exciting new rocket propulsion system that would open the solar system for more in depth exploration.
Most rocket engines use chemical reactions for power. They combine various gases and liquids to form chemical explosions which push the rocket through space. Chemical rocket engines tend to be powerful, but have a short lifetime.
Ion engines use electric fields instead of chemical reactions. Ion engines tend to be much less powerful, but are so efficient that they can last for years before running out of fuel.
These activities should help you understand how ion engines work. Before you can understand the entire ion engine principle, you need to understand some basics about electric charges. Play the first three activities to learn about electric charges. Then, try your hand at designing an ion engine.
- Positive and Negative Charges - Learn all about electrical charges.
- Charge Control - Play a game and try to get the charged particles to hit the targets.
- Hotspots - Play against the computer in this soccer-like game.
- Design an ion engine - Put what you have learned to use in making an ion engine.
|
