What is a Zeppelin?

A Zeppelin refers specifically to a large rigid airship that is typically characterized by a framework constructed from metal and covered with a gas-tight envelope. This type of airship, named after Ferdinand von Zeppelin, who pioneered its development in the early 20th century, was notable for its use in passenger travel and military reconnaissance. The design includes a structure that allows it to maintain its shape even when it is not filled with lifting gas, such as hydrogen or helium.

Zeppelins gained prominence during World War I and in the interwar years, symbolizing a significant technological advancement in aerial transportation. They offered a unique flying experience, moving slowly and with the capacity for long-range travel, unlike airplanes of the same period that were limited in range and speed. This distinction is key to understanding why the option that identifies Zeppelins as large rigid airships is accurate.