How Does “Lighter Than Air” Work?
Thursday, July 6th, 2006“We’ll never be able to turn a profit with helium,” said a navigator sitting across from Erich.
“Why not?” asked Beate. “I mean, forgive me if this is a silly question, but what’s the difference between hydrogen and helium? Aside from the threat of fire, that is.”
“It’s not a silly question at all,” said Willi, leaning forward. “Basically, helium has less lifting ability than hydrogen. Say that my mug here is filled with enough hydrogen to lift it.” Willi floated his mug above the table. “Now, if my mug was filled with helium instead,” said Willi, “it wouldn’t be able to carry the same weight.” Down floated the mug.
“I think I understand,” Beate said.
How about you? Do you understand how it works?