step rocket

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Explanation of "Step Rocket"

Definition:
A "step rocket" is a type of rocket that has two or more engines. Each engine uses its own fuel and is fired one after the other. When the fuel of one engine runs out, that engine is dropped off, or "jettisoned," so that the next engine can continue to propel the rocket further.

Usage Instructions

• Part of Speech: Noun
• Context: Typically used in discussions about space travel, rocketry, or engineering.

Example Sentence

• "The space mission used a step rocket to reach orbit, allowing it to carry more payload by shedding stages as it ascended."

Advanced Usage

In advanced discussions, you might encounter terms like "multi-stage rocket" or "staging," which refer to the same concept as a step rocket. Engineers and scientists often analyze the efficiency and performance of step rockets in launching satellites or crewed spacecraft.

Word Variants

• Multi-stage rocket: Another term for a step rocket, emphasizing the multiple stages of engines.
• Staging: The process of dropping parts of the rocket as they are no longer needed.

Different Meanings

While "step rocket" specifically refers to rockets in aerospace, "step" can have other meanings in different contexts, such as: - Step (noun): A movement made by lifting one foot and putting it down in a different place. - Step (verb): To move by lifting the foot and putting it down in a new position.

Synonyms

• Multi-stage rocket
• Staged rocket
• Booster rocket (in some contexts)

Related Idioms and Phrasal Verbs

While there are no direct idioms or phrasal verbs that relate specifically to "step rocket," you might find related phrases in discussions about progress or advancement: - "Take a step forward": To make progress. - "Step up": To increase in intensity or effort.

Conclusion

Understanding the concept of a step rocket helps in grasping how modern rockets operate and their design.

Academic

Noun

1. a rocket having two or more rocket engines (each with its own fuel) that are fired in succession and jettisoned when the fuel is exhausted

Synonyms

• multistage rocket