Question

explain how a rocket can propel itself using newtons third law.
○ as the rocket pushes exhaust gases backward, the gases push the rocket forward.
○ as the rocket pushes exhaust gases backward, the gases exert gravitational forces on the rocket, and newtons third law is built into the gravitational force.
○ as the rocket pushes exhaust gases backward, the air behind the rocket pushes the rocket forward.
○ as the rocket pushes exhaust gases backward, the rocket loses mass and becomes less dense, and the resulting buoyant force pushes the rocket forward.

Explanation:

Newton's third law states that for every action, there is an equal and opposite reaction. A rocket propels by pushing exhaust gases backward (action), and the gases push the rocket forward (reaction). The first option just states the law, not the mechanism. The third and fourth options have incorrect force explanations (gravity/buoyancy not involved here). So the second option correctly explains the propulsion via Newton's third law.

Answer:

B. As the rocket pushes exhaust gases backward, the gases push the rocket forward.