Question

according to newtons third law of motion, when a rocket expels hot gas downwards, what is the reaction that causes the rocket to move upwards?
a) the air pushing the rocket up.
b) the rocket pushing against the ground.
c) the hot gas pushing the rocket upwards.
d) gravity pulling the rocket up.

Explanation:

Newton's Third Law states that for every action, there is an equal and opposite reaction. When a rocket expels hot gas downwards (action), the reaction is the hot gas pushing the rocket upwards. Option a: Air pushing up isn't the reaction here. Option b: Rocket pushing against ground is incorrect. Option d: Gravity pulls down, not up. So the reaction is hot gas pushing the rocket upwards.

Answer:

c) The hot gas pushing the rocket upwards.