Difficulty: Easy
Correct Answer: Robert Goddard
Explanation:
Introduction / Context:
Modern rocketry made space exploration, satellite communication and intercontinental missiles possible. The development of liquid fuelled rockets was a key breakthrough in this field. This question checks whether you know which scientist is widely regarded as the father of modern rocketry because he designed, built and launched the first successful liquid fuelled rocket.
Given Data / Assumptions:
Concept / Approach:
To solve this, recall that in the early twentieth century, an American scientist and engineer built a rocket powered by liquid fuel that actually flew. His experiments laid the groundwork for later rocket and space programmes. Another important figure, Konstantin Tsiolkovsky, developed the theory of rocketry but did not build the first working liquid fuel rocket. The correct answer is the experimentalist who performed the launches, not the theorist.
Step-by-Step Solution:
Step 1: Remember that the first liquid fuelled rocket was launched in the nineteen twenties by an American scientist.
Step 2: Connect this information with the name Robert Goddard.
Step 3: Scan the options to locate Robert Goddard in option C.
Step 4: Compare with the other names and see that they are not recognised as rocket inventors.
Step 5: Choose Robert Goddard as the correct answer.
Verification / Alternative check:
Rich K Goyle is not a major figure in scientific history. E. M. Forster was a novelist, not a scientist. James Anderson also has no strong link with rocket invention. Konstantin Tsiolkovsky made theoretical contributions and is sometimes called a father of astronautics, but he did not build and launch the first liquid fuel rocket. Science and history books widely state that Robert Goddard built and launched the first such rocket, confirming that he fits the description in the question.
Why Other Options Are Wrong:
Rich K Goyle is only a distractor and not connected with rocketry.
E. M. Forster is associated with literature, not science and engineering.
James Anderson does not appear as a key name in rocket history.
Konstantin Tsiolkovsky provided important theoretical ideas but did not perform the first liquid fuel rocket launch.
Common Pitfalls:
A common mistake is to choose Konstantin Tsiolkovsky because he is sometimes referred to as a father of astronautics. However the question specifically refers to inventing and launching the first liquid fuelled rocket, which is an experimental achievement associated with Robert Goddard. Carefully reading the wording and distinguishing between theory and practical invention helps avoid this confusion.
Final Answer:
The scientist often called the father of modern rocketry is Robert Goddard.
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