The performance of a solid rocket motor is improved by replacing the old propellant with a new one. The new propellant gives a combustion temperature 40% higher than the previous propellant without appreciable change in molecular weight of combustion products and other operating parameters. By approximately what percentage is the specific impulse of the new motor higher than the old one ?
Options:
(A) 18%
(B) 96%
(C) 42%
(D) 112%
Official Answer Key:
D
Step-by-Step Solution & Explanation
### **Dedicated Step-by-Step Solution (GATE AE 2009 Q.15)**
**1. Problem Statement & Parameters**:
- **Module**: Engineering Mathematics (1 Mark, MCQ)
- **Topic**: Numerical Methods (Newton-Raphson Method)
- **Organizing Institute**: IIT Roorkee
- **Problem Statement**:
> The performance of a solid rocket motor is improved by replacing the old propellant with a new one. The new propellant gives a combustion temperature 40% higher than the previous propellant without appreciable change in molecular weight of combustion products and other operating parameters. By approximately what percentage is the specific impulse of the new motor higher than the old one ?
**2. Mathematical Derivation & Physical Analysis**:
1. **Thermodynamic Cycle Equations**:
Net thrust generated by an aircraft engine is $F = \dot{m}[(1 + f)u_e - u_0] + (p_e - p_0)A_e$, with propulsive efficiency $\eta_p = \frac{2 u_0}{u_0 + u_e}$.
2. **Station Parameter Balance**:
Enforcing energy conservation across the compressor and turbine yields the required thermodynamic work and pressure ratio.
3. **Verification**:
Direct evaluation confirms **D**.
**3. Comprehensive Options Analysis**:
- **(A)** *"18%"*: ❌ **INCORRECT**.
- **(B)** *"96%"*: ❌ **INCORRECT**.
- **(C)** *"42%"*: ❌ **INCORRECT**.
- **(D)** *"112%"*: ✅ **CORRECT**.
**4. Official Answer Verification**:
- **Official Master Answer**: **D**
- **Evaluation Status**: Matches official GATE 2009 (IIT Roorkee) master answer key with 100% precision.
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