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The term “balloon” generally refers to an aircraft that achieves flight through buoyancy, utilizing a lighter-than-air gas, typically helium or hydrogen, to generate lift. Unlike airplanes or helicopters, balloons do not have mechanical propulsion systems. Here are some key points about balloons:
- Buoyancy: Balloons rise and fall based on the principle of buoyancy, where the weight of the displaced air (or gas) is less than the weight of the balloon itself, causing it to float upwards.
- Components:
- Envelope: The outer shell of the balloon, usually made of nylon or another lightweight, airtight material. It contains the lifting gas.
- Basket or gondola: A structure suspended beneath the envelope where passengers and equipment are carried.
- Burner: A propane burner mounted above the basket that heats the air inside the envelope, causing the gas to expand and increasing the buoyancy.
- Types:
- Hot Air Balloons: Use heated air inside the envelope to achieve lift. They are the most common type of balloon for recreational and commercial use.
- Gas Balloons: Use helium or hydrogen gas, which is lighter than air, to achieve lift. They are often used for long-distance flights and record attempts.
- Flight Characteristics: Balloons are steered by ascending or descending into wind currents of different directions and speeds. While they can control altitude to some extent, they generally travel with the wind.
- Applications: Balloons are used for recreational flights, aerial photography, scientific research, and advertising. They have also been historically important for exploration and military reconnaissance.
Overall, balloons represent a simple yet effective form of aviation that relies on natural principles of physics to achieve flight, offering a serene and unique aerial experience.
See
- Barrage balloon
- Captive Balloon