Rockets

[TheRocketeer]

I am doing a project on model rocket recovery systems and I have a few questions to ask
Through my research, I have found that a streamer works by creating more friction with the air than a rocket just falling. But, even though I know a parachute does the same thing, it doesn't make sense to me that it is creating friction with the air, more like it is just trapping passing air inside of it to slow itself down. I was wondering if someone could clear this up for me. Thank you

[TheRocketeer]

I have a few questions about the recovery systems for model rockets.

1. How exactly does a parachute for a rocket cause friction with the air? I understand drag, but friction?

2. Is a parachute (w/ or w/o hole) or a streamer more useful in a heavier model rocket?

3. Why is cutting a hole in the center of a parachute instead of having multiple holes?

4. Do streamers cause drag? Or do they slow down the rocket solely by friction?

5. When would you use a streamer as opposed to a parachute?

6. When would you use a parachute with a hole in it?

7. Is any one method the best in higher winds?

8. Is any one method the best with higher flights?

[kgudger]

I know it doesn't sound right that the parachute is creating friction, but I suggest you look up the definition of friction. Here's Wikipedia's: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Friction

Skin friction is a component of drag, the force resisting the motion of a solid body through a fluid.

If you consider friction to be the force acting against a "forward" force, then the parachute qualifies.

Keith

[kgudger]

Hi - with regards to your list of questions, some of these should be your research. They all sound like great ideas for science projects! You might want to narrow the focus of your efforts to one or two of these questions and go from there.

Keith