Thrust is what launches a model rocket off the pad and accelerates it skyward — but how well can math predict what actually happens? You calculate expected altitude and speed for six model rockets using physics equations that account for thrust, drag, mass, and gravity. Then you launch each one and measure the real values with altitude finders and stopwatches. The simulation predictions land within 20% of the measured results, which means a math-based model can give a reliable picture of how a rocket will fly before you ever light the engine.

Propeller blades work by pushing air backward — the reaction force moves the vehicle forward. To test how blade size affects that push, you build three zinc sheet metal propellers in different sizes, each mounted on a 12V DC motor attached to a shoe box on wheels. Then you time how long the box takes to travel two meters. The largest propeller (30mm x 50mm) crosses the distance in 17 seconds, while the smallest (20mm x 30mm) takes 51 seconds. Bigger blades move more air with each spin and produce noticeably more thrust at the same motor speed.