Rocketing Across the U.S.A.

Imagine what it would be like to drive coast-to-coast as self-contained as a rocket, carrying all the fuel and oxygen your car needs. The total amount of fuel you would normally need for such a trip--plus the 3 to 4 kilograms of oxygen required to burn each kilogram of fuel--would probably weigh more than a ton. No problem. You could tow a trailer to carry the extra tanks.

But wait! You would then need even more fuel and oxygen to haul all that weight. And even more fuel and oxygen to haul that additional weight. And a bigger engine, which would burn fuel even faster. Aren't you glad there are gas stations (and free oxygen-rich air) along the highway?

(Rev. 09/22/96)