Question

Consider the following statements in respect of a jet engine and a rocket: 

1. A jet engine uses the surrounding air for its oxygen supply and so is unsuitable for motion in space. 

2. A rocket carries its own supply of oxygen in the gas form, and fuel. 

Which of the statements given above is/are correct? 

(a) 1 only (b) 2 only (c) Both 1 and 2 (d) Neither 1 nor 2

Answer 1

(a) A jet engine combines oxygen from the air with fuel at high temperature. There is usually a spark to ignite the fuel vapor, but once the engine begins turning, it will continue running until it runs out of fuel or air. 

A rocket, in contrast, carries both fuel (which may be solid or liquid) and oxygen.