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Anthony
Student
Arizona City, Arizona
1
Question
Updated
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How do aerospace engineers apply principles of materials science to develop lightweight and durable aircraft components?
My name is Anthony I am in 8th grade and I’m am curious as to how aerospace engineers apply science to create well made space/aircraft
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a b
Software Development
29
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Portland, Oregon
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a’s Answer
Anthony - AZ USA
Great question!!!
Materials selection involves a lot of different considerations. It requires you to understand chemistry and practical application.
You'll have to understand various alloys, what materials are generally available, cost, supply issues, standard sizes, interactions with other materials, temperature ranges, fastening methods, machining or fabrication limitations, vibration, corrosion, structural capabilities (compression/distortion), etc.
It's all about trade-offs in a lot of different variables.
Very best wishes!
Blaine - Oregon USA
Great question!!!
Materials selection involves a lot of different considerations. It requires you to understand chemistry and practical application.
You'll have to understand various alloys, what materials are generally available, cost, supply issues, standard sizes, interactions with other materials, temperature ranges, fastening methods, machining or fabrication limitations, vibration, corrosion, structural capabilities (compression/distortion), etc.
It's all about trade-offs in a lot of different variables.
Very best wishes!
Blaine - Oregon USA
Teklemuz Ayenew Tesfay
Electrical Engineer, Software Developer, and Career Mentor
517
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Ethiopia
Updated
Teklemuz Ayenew’s Answer
Aerospace engineers use materials science to create aircraft and spacecraft that are both light and strong. They study how materials react to heat, pressure, and force, choosing those that provide strength without extra weight. Common materials include aluminum, titanium, and carbon fiber. Engineers also develop advanced composites by mixing materials to boost performance. Before building anything, they use computer simulations to ensure designs are safe and efficient.
If you're interested in aerospace engineering, focus on improving your skills in math, physics, and chemistry. Start with simple projects like making paper airplanes or launching model rockets to see how design and materials affect performance. Asking questions, trying new solutions, and learning from mistakes are key parts of engineering. Explore resources like NASA’s STEM @ Home for free activities, Kerbal Space Program for virtual designs, and tools like Tinkercad and Scratch for 3D design and coding.
You can also learn from YouTube channels like Mark Rober, Smarter Every Day, and Veritasium, which make science fun and easy to understand. Flight simulators like Microsoft Flight Simulator and X-Plane offer a real feel for aircraft controls and aerodynamics. Online tutorials and virtual tools let you explore aerospace systems without needing physical materials. Books like The Way Things Work and Astrophysics for Young People in a Hurry are great for beginners. Joining science clubs, entering competitions, or visiting museums can give you valuable hands-on experience. Most importantly, stay curious, keep experimenting, and enjoy discovering how the world and universe work.
If you're interested in aerospace engineering, focus on improving your skills in math, physics, and chemistry. Start with simple projects like making paper airplanes or launching model rockets to see how design and materials affect performance. Asking questions, trying new solutions, and learning from mistakes are key parts of engineering. Explore resources like NASA’s STEM @ Home for free activities, Kerbal Space Program for virtual designs, and tools like Tinkercad and Scratch for 3D design and coding.
You can also learn from YouTube channels like Mark Rober, Smarter Every Day, and Veritasium, which make science fun and easy to understand. Flight simulators like Microsoft Flight Simulator and X-Plane offer a real feel for aircraft controls and aerodynamics. Online tutorials and virtual tools let you explore aerospace systems without needing physical materials. Books like The Way Things Work and Astrophysics for Young People in a Hurry are great for beginners. Joining science clubs, entering competitions, or visiting museums can give you valuable hands-on experience. Most importantly, stay curious, keep experimenting, and enjoy discovering how the world and universe work.
Thank you so much for telling me the important information that I need to know for my future Career.
Anthony