Why can’t they make space elevators with propellers on them to reduce tension forces?
That would only work in the atmosphere, where the propellers have something to push: air. But the cable will experience the same amount of tension above the atmosphere, where there is no air for the propellers to push. The only real solution is to find a way to manufacture, in large quantity at r…
The Short Answer
That would only work in the atmosphere, where the propellers have something to push: air. But the cable will experience the same amount of tension above the atmosphere, where there is no air for the propellers to push. The only real solution is to find a way to manufacture, in large quantity at reasonable cost, a material with the necessary tensile strength.
Analysis
Key Concepts: Atmosphere, propellers, push
This explanation focuses on atmosphere, propellers, push and spans 62 words across 3 sentences. The depth is typical for Science questions (category average: 72 words), striking a balance between accessibility and completeness.
What This Answer Covers
The explanation opens with: “That would only work in the atmosphere, where the propellers have something to push: air.” It then elaborates by presenting a contrasting perspective, ultimately building toward a complete picture across 3 connected points.
How This Compares in Science
Ranked #260 of 500 Science questions by answer depth (top 53%). This is in the concise tier — a focused explanation that prioritizes clarity over exhaustiveness. Many readers prefer this level of directness.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a simple explanation for why they make space elevators with propellers on them to reduce tension forces?
That would only work in the atmosphere, where the propellers have something to push: air. But the cable will experience the same amount of tension above the atmosphere, where there is no air for the propellers to push. The only real solution is to…
How detailed is this explanation compared to similar Science questions?
This is a focused answer at 62 words, ranked #260 of 500 Science questions by depth. The key concepts covered are atmosphere, propellers, push.
What approach does this answer take to explain they make space elevators with propellers on them to reduce ?
The explanation uses root cause analysis and contrasting perspectives across 62 words. It is categorized under Science and addresses the question through 2 analytical lenses.