Expert: Paul Soderman - 11/4/2009

Question
QUESTION: I feel wonder when I see a plane fly with so many huge loads. Similar is for the lift and speed control of rocket in space. Althogh I know a little about the force and reaction from the air, I like to get the clear concept.

ANSWER: Soumen
The devil is in the details. But essentially, a wing with the proper shape, angle of attack, and airspeed will develop surface pressures that when integrated equal lift that counters the weight of the airplane.  Drag is also created and is overcome by thrust of the engines.  You need an aerodynamics book to get the details.
Paul

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Thanks Paul. But I need a more from the conceptual explanation.  Who creates the lift? and how?  For rocket travel in space, there is no air. who attacks whom as you mentioned the angle of attack? Could you suggest a e-book that can can be read from net?
Regards,
Soumen

Answer
Soumen
You need to study physics as it pertains to Newton's laws.  The rocket get thrust in space by expelling high velocity gases out the nozzle.  Newton explains how that creates a reaction force and acceleration.  A similar analysis can be used for aerodynamics as explained here:  http://user.uni-frankfurt.de/~weltner/Flight/PHYSIC4.htm.  You can also get good information at:  http://www.grc.nasa.gov/WWW/K-12/airplane/bga.html.  Good luck.
Paul