Hovercraft Basics

A hovercraft is a vehicle that is supported by a cushion of air. It is propelled by fans that create a downward thrust of air. The air cushion allows the hovercraft to travel over a variety of surfaces, including water, land, and ice. ### Key Principles * **Air Cushion:** The core principle of a hovercraft is the creation of a high-pressure air cushion beneath the vehicle. This cushion is contained by a flexible skirt that surrounds the base of the hovercraft. * **Lift:** A fan, called the lift fan, draws air from above and forces it underneath the craft, inflating the skirt and creating the air cushion. The pressure of this air is slightly higher than the atmospheric pressure, which is what lifts the hovercraft off the ground. * **Thrust:** A separate fan, the thrust fan, provides the horizontal force to move the hovercraft. This fan can be directed to steer the vehicle. ### Components * **Hull:** The main body of the hovercraft. * **Skirt:** A flexible curtain that traps the air cushion. * **Lift Fan:** The fan that creates the air cushion. * **Thrust Fan:** The fan that provides propulsion. * **Engine:** The power source for the fans. * **Rudders:** Used for steering.