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monopropellant

Upper-Intermediate (B2)

IPA: /ˌmɒnəˈprəʊpələnt/

KK: /mɑːnəˈprɒpələnt/

adjective
Definition

Referring to a type of propellant that consists of a single chemical substance that can produce thrust when decomposed or reacted, typically used in rocket propulsion systems.


Example

The spacecraft was designed to use a monopropellant for its maneuvering thrusters.


Conversation
Sloth A
Have you heard about the new rocket engine that uses a monopropellant?
Sloth B
Yeah, I read that it’s more efficient than traditional fuels.
Sloth A
It’s amazing how technology is evolving with these monopropellant systems.
Sloth B
I know! It could really change space travel in the future.

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
single
sole
unique
Antonyms
multiple
composite
mixed
noun
Definition

A type of rocket fuel that is made from just one substance, which provides both the fuel and the oxidizer needed for combustion.


Example

The spacecraft used a monopropellant for its thrusters to simplify the fuel system.


Conversation
Sloth A
Have you heard about the new monopropellant they're using in rockets now?
Sloth B
Yeah, I read that it combines both fuel and oxidizer in one substance.
Sloth A
That sounds really efficient! I wonder how it affects the rocket's performance.
Sloth B
Root Explanation

Monopropellant → It is formed from "mono-" (meaning one) and "propellant" (from Latin "propellere", meaning to drive forward). The word describes a type of rocket fuel that consists of a single substance that produces thrust when decomposed or reacted, hence driving forward with one component.

Memory Tip

Think of 'one' ('mono-') substance that 'drives forward' ('propellere') to remember that a monopropellant is a fuel that propels using just one ingredient.

Visually Confused Words
propellant
Is this page helpful?
It should make things simpler and lighter, which is always a plus.

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
propellant
fuel
oxidizer
Antonyms
bipropellant
inert
nonfuel