The provided diagram depicts meticulously the structure and the operation of a hot balloon.
Overall, the system involves three key components, including a basket, an envelope, and a burner. Moreover, its ascent and descent depend significantly on the circulation of the air inside and outside the envelope.
Initially, in terms of the base, the lowest part of the balloon is the basket in which a propane cylinder is deposited, providing fuel for the burner suspended over it. Specifically, a mixture of propane and air is used to produce flame via their chemical reaction, resulting in hot air, which is beneficial for the ascending mechanism. Then, the collected air is channeled into the interior space of the envelope. As it is lighter than the cool air outside, the heated air lifts the balloon and makes it buoyant.
Looking from the outside at the hot air balloon, there are ropes and a skirt designed to attach the base with the envelope, shaped as an inverted teardrop, while the parachute itself consists of several vertical gores. Each of these gores is made by sewing multiple horizontal panels together, and extends from the throat to the crown of the parachute. At the top of the envelope lies the parachute valve, which is a self-sealing flap that regulates the pace at which hot air escapes.