Propellant: meaning, definitions and examples

General term for any substance used to produce thrust in a propulsion system.

• The spacecraft's propellant reserves are running low.
• Scientists are researching new types of propellant to improve rocket efficiency.

Typically used when specifically referring to the fuel in rockets designed for space travel.

• The rocket fuel needs to be loaded in a controlled environment to prevent accidents.
• Different types of rocket fuel are used depending on the mission requirements.

Used for the fuel in missiles, which may include both liquid and solid fuels.

• Technicians carefully handled the missile propellant due to its volatile nature.
• Advancements in missile propellant have increased the range of modern weaponry.

Specifically refers to fuel used in jet engines, typically for aircraft.

• The fighter jets were refueled with jet propellant before the mission.
• Jet propellant is engineered to withstand high temperatures and pressures.

Refers broadly to any chemical substance used to create thrust or propulsion. It can be used in various contexts, including rockets, aerosols, or other systems.

• Space rockets need a powerful propellant to reach orbit.
• The deodorant spray uses a safe propellant to distribute the liquid evenly.

Often used historically or colloquially to refer to the traditional black powder used in early firearms and cannons. It can also refer to the substance in firecrackers and small explosive devices. It has an old-fashioned or nostalgic connotation.

• The old musket was loaded with gunpowder and lead shot.
• Gunpowder was a revolutionary invention in the history of firearms.

Specifically used in the context of providing the energy needed to fire a projectile from a firearm or artillery. It is a general term for materials that provide the explosive force to ammunition.

• The factory manufactures high-quality ammunition propellant for different calibers.
• The soldiers checked their ammunition propellant before heading to the field.

This specifically refers to the chemical substance used to propel bullets from firearms, usually in smaller arms like rifles and handguns.

• Modern rifles use a variety of bullet propellants to achieve optimal performance.
• He studied the chemical composition of bullet propellants for his research paper.