Principle of propulsion: rockets versus air-breathing jets Is the basic working principle of rocket propulsion the same as that of jet propulsion (i.e., reaction thrust from high-velocity mass ejection)?

Introduction / Context:
Both rockets and jet engines generate thrust by expelling mass at high velocity in the opposite direction to motion. This is a direct application of conservation of momentum and Newton’s third law.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• Steady propulsion; thrust defined by momentum change plus pressure terms at the exit plane.
• Different propellant sources: jets breathe atmospheric air; rockets carry oxidizer and fuel.

Concept / Approach:
The thrust formula for a generic propulsion device is T = m_dot * (V_exit - V_flight) + (p_exit - p_ambient) * A_exit. Both jets and rockets increase exhaust momentum relative to the vehicle; rockets are self-contained and operate in vacuum, while jets require atmospheric oxygen and therefore cannot operate in space.

Step-by-Step Solution:

Verification / Alternative check:
Control volume analyses for both systems yield the same thrust expressions with appropriate fluid properties and mass flow definitions.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:

Limiting the principle to vacuum, subsonic regimes, or afterburning misconstrues the universal momentum basis of thrust.

Common Pitfalls:
Confusing “requires air” (jets) with “principle of operation.” The medium differs, but the physics of reaction thrust is identical.

Final Answer:

Yes