The thrust equation, a fundamental principle in physics and engineering, expresses how a propulsion system’s force relates to the mass flow rate of the propellant and the velocity at which it expels. Mathematically, it states that the system generates thrust by accelerating mass (exhaust gases) in one direction and that the pressure difference between the exhaust and ambient surroundings also contributes to the thrust.
Where:
( F ) is the thrust force generated by the propulsion system,
( \dot{m} ) is the mass flow rate of the propellant,
( V_e ) is the exhaust velocity of the propellant,
( p_e ) is the pressure of the exhaust gases,
( p_0 )Â is the ambient pressure,
( A_e ) is the exit area of the propulsion system.