How Does a Hot Air Balloon Work?

A hot air balloon works by utilizing the physical law that warm air is lighter than cold air. By gathering a large amount of relatively warm air, it can begin to lift a considerable weight. A cubic meter of air heated to 100 degrees can lift about 300 grams. By heating approximately 2000 m3 of air to 100 degrees, you can create a lifting force of about 600 kg, which is the weight of a small balloon with gas, basket, and passengers. By using the burner during the flight, the balloon pilot can increase and decrease the temperature in the balloon envelope, causing the balloon to rise and fall. The temperature in the balloon envelope is hottest at the top and typically ranges between 80-110 degrees. The balloon’s flight time depends on how much gas is carried and how much is used. Normally, about 60-80 liters of gas are used per hour. When the balloon pilot wishes to land the balloon, they can slowly decrease the altitude and finally let the basket land on a suitable fallow field or grassland.