A jet engine works on the principle of conservation of?
- Linear momentum
- Angular momentum
- Energy
- Mass
The correct option is i. Linear momentum
Explanation:
The conservation of linear momentum states that the body in motion will retain its total momentum unless an external force is applied to it. The mathematical form is:
Initial momentum = Final momentum
P<sub>i</sub> = P<sub>f</sub>
In a jet engine, a large volume of gas is produced through the combustion of fuel which gets escaped from the back side of the jet. A large momentum is gained by this gas since it has a high velocity. Therefore, there is an equal and opposite momentum. Thus, the jet moves in the forward direction with high speed.