Analysis of the Propulsion Phase of Water Rockets Using Smartphone Sensors and Video Analysis

Abstract

Water rockets can be used in a variety of ways, from schools to planetariums, with very young kids or adults. We propose here simple forms to work with water rockets, going one step further than a simple launch. A smartphone can be used to film the launch and analyze its motion with video analysis or it can even be attached to the rocket, using its acceleration sensor. We present both experimental techniques, theory, and a discussion about the propelling phase of the rocket’s motion. The results show amazing features that are frequently neglected when discussing parabolic motion.

Experimental analysis of propeller thrust in an undergraduate physics laboratory

“…studies of Atwoo's variable mass machine [3,4], chain drop in different configurations [5,6] or rocket design [7]. However, digitalization and the tools derived from it allow for a more rigorous, less expensive, and straightforward analysis of these experiments [8][9][10].…”