Episode 06: A Patch, A Modem, And — A Zantacв®

Sheldon tries to take out a second mortgage on his parents' house to afford a $3 million computer.

Ultimately, George Sr. takes the family to Houston so Sheldon can confront Dr. Hodges in person. While Hodges admits Sheldon's math is theoretically valid, he notes that NASA lacks the current technology to implement it. Episode 06: A Patch, a Modem, and a ZantacВ®

When Dr. Ronald Hodges, a NASA engineer, visits Sheldon's science class, he condescendingly brushes off Sheldon's suggestion for a vertical takeoff and vertical landing (VTVL) rocket system. Determined to prove him wrong, Sheldon attempts to calculate the complex math required but realizes he needs a computer to solve the Navier-Stokes equations. Sheldon tries to take out a second mortgage

The intense stress of being "ignored" by the scientific community causes Sheldon to develop a stomach ulcer, for which he is prescribed Zantac® . Hodges in person

Adult Sheldon (narrated by Jim Parsons) reveals that his desire to spite "nincompoops" like Dr. Hodges was a major factor in his decision to become a theoretical physicist.

The episode is noted by critics for showing a rare, supportive moment where George Sr. stands up for Sheldon's intellect.