Veritasium: What happens if you throw sand into a jet engine?

Summary

In this KiwiCo-sponsored Veritasium video, Derek Muller and co. break down how jet engines actually work—from compressor and turbine basics to the role of edge dislocations and nickel-based superalloys in keeping turbine blades from melting. You’ll get a behind-the-scenes look at Rolls-Royce’s precision casting facility, crystal structures in single-crystal blades, and the evolution of jet engines.

It all builds up to the big question: what happens if you chuck sand into a jet engine? Along the way, you’ll meet top experts, see slick animations, and even learn how you could win a space-themed trip by subscribing to Science Alert’s newsletter.

Watch on YouTube