How Much Sugar Do Rockets Have? The Science Behind 'Rocket Candy'
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3 min read
Amateur rocketeers have used a solid propellant mixture known as 'rocket candy' for decades, which combines sugar and an oxidizer. This simple formula, often consisting of a mixture of potassium nitrate and a type of sugar like sucrose or sorbitol, is responsible for the iconic white smoke trails of many homemade rockets. The amount of sugar is precisely calculated to provide the right amount of fuel for the chemical reaction to generate thrust.
