Question

A rocket works on the principle of:

• A. work
• B. conservation of momentum
• C. Energy
• D. Mass

Answer 1

Answer:

B. conservation of momentum

• A rocket works on the principle of Newton's Third Law of Motion, which states:

  "For every action, there is an equal and opposite reaction."

  Here's how it applies to a rocket:

  • Action: The rocket expels hot gases (propellant) downwards at high velocity from its engine nozzle.

  • Reaction: The expulsion of these gases creates an equal and opposite thrust (force) that propels the rocket upwards.

  This principle is also known as the conservation of momentum. The total momentum of the rocket and the expelled gases remains constant. As the gases gain momentum in one direction, the rocket gains an equal amount of momentum in the opposite direction.