The transfer functions of rocket nozzles

Abstract

The transfer function is defined as the fractional oscillating mass flow rate divided by the fractional sinusoidal pressure oscillation in the rocket combustion chamber. This is calculated as a function of the frequency of oscillation. For very small frequencies, the transfer function is approximately 1 with a small "lead component." For very large frequencies, the transfer function is considerably larger than 1, and is approximately 1 + (γM_1)^(-1) where γ is the ratio of specific heats of the gas, and M_l is the Mach nUlllber at entrance to the nozzle.