Chapter 4, Problem 6RAT

The force that propels a rocket is provided by

(a) gravity.

(b) Newton's laws of motion.

(c) its exhaust gases.

(d) the atmosphere against which the rocket pushes.

To determine

The correct option for the statement "The force that propels a rocket is provided by".

Answer to Problem 6RAT

The correct option for the statement "The force that propels a rocket is provided by" is option (c).

Explanation of Solution

A rocket works on Newton's third law, which is based on action and reaction forces. Therocket uses a sufficient amount of fuel to get power. The rocket engine burns a heavy amount of fuel in the rocket and produces a large volume of exerting gases. These exhaust gases are ejected at high velocity with the help of nozzles.

By this gas, a rocket exerts an action force on the gases and the exhaust gases also exert reaction force. And by Newton's law of action and reaction forces, exhaust gas also exerts an equal and opposite force on the rocket. This reaction force propels the rocket to move in the forward direction.

Conclusion:

Therefore, the correct option for the statement "The force that propels a rocket is provided by" is option (c).