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Old 02-19-2013, 11:01 PM   #27 (permalink)
mort
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Quote:
Originally Posted by basjoos View Post
Another problem with prop propulsion on the road is how steep of a grade can it climb since, unlike wheel propulsion, it is totally decoupled from ground friction? Most aircraft climb out at a fairly shallow angle compared to the steep grades you might encounter when entering a driveway or a parking lot where you need to drop into 1st gear to make it up the slope.
Almost the opposite. "Coupling" is misdirection. Rockets make vertical climbs totally decoupled from ground friction. If the propeller makes more thrust than than needed to climb the hill then you go up.
Air shows often have hopped up crop-duster biplanes that can make vertical climbs. The Piper Cub can make a 45 degree climb, and no road is that steep.
-mort
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