Understand The Difference Between Regulated Results And Optimal Performance Of A Model Rocket

Background
As engineers it is important to understand the difference between simulated results and experimental results. Although simulated results can be helpful when designing a project, they may not necessarily align with what is observed in the real world. The difference between simulated results and experimental results is best summed up in the phrase all models are wrong but some are useful. This lab serves as a means to display the difference between simulated and actual results.

1.2 Purpose
Compare the theoretical performance of a model rocket to the actual performance of a model rocket.
2.0 METHODOLOGY
The rocket was assembled according to the instructions on the package, but with the fins canted at 15 degrees to spin stabilize the rocket. The

The motor was inserted into the rocket; however, the motor mount had been installed half an inch too low. Therefore, the motor was hot glued in the rocket to keep it from falling out during flight.

The lab class relocated to the lower fields. I used a measuring tape and flour to mark three locations 100 feet from the launch pad. My lab group had one person stand at each of the three locations to measure the angle the rocket made with the ground at its maximum altitude.

The rocket was launched and the three groups recorded the angle the rocket made with the ground at its maximum altitude using the cylindrical instrument given. After the launch, the rocket and motor masses were measured separately and recorded using the scale.
3.0 RESULTS AND DISCUSSION
3.1 Collected Data
Table 3.1, located below, shows the initial conditions of the launch.

Table 3.1: Initial Conditions
Latitude Longitude Elevation
34¬¬o 37’ 2.3” N (Phi) 112o 27’ 13.1” W (Lambda) 1577.95