How do ion engines work?

Answer 1

Ion engines use an electromagnetic or electrostatic force to accelerate ions of a substance, for instance a gas like xenon, or a substance like Mercury, out of a nozzle, producing thrust.

Ion engines have a very low thrust but a very high specific impulse.

Answer 2

Ion engines work by accelerating ions (charged particles) through an electric field to generate thrust. This process creates a continuous and efficient propulsion system that can operate over long durations, although at relatively low thrust levels compared to chemical rockets. The ions are typically produced by ionizing a gas such as xenon, which is then expelled at high speeds to propel the spacecraft forward.