Question

a model rocket is powered by an inflated balloon as shown below.
when the air in the balloon is released, the rocket will move forward. which of the following statements is the best example of newtons third law of motion in this situation?
1
a. the rocket moves in the same direction of the force of the air.
b. the rocket moves in the opposite direction of its force on the air.
c. the rockets mass is equal to the force of the released air.
d. the rockets mass is equal to the gravitational force

Explanation:

Newton's third law states that for every action, there is an equal and opposite reaction. When the air is released from the balloon (action force), the air exerts a force on the rocket. In turn, the rocket exerts an equal and opposite force on the air. This causes the rocket to move in the opposite direction of the force exerted on the air.

• Option A: Incorrect. The rocket moves in the opposite direction of the force on the air (due to Newton's third law).
• Option B: Correct. When the air is released (action), the rocket experiences a reaction force opposite to the force on the air, making it move.
• Option C: Incorrect. Mass and gravitational force are related to Newton's second law (\(F = ma\), \(F_g=mg\)) not the third law.
• Option D: Incorrect. This relates to Newton's second law (\(F = ma\), when \(a = 0\), \(F_{net}=0\)) not the third law.

Answer:

B. The rocket moves in the opposite direction of its force on the air.