A spacecraft in outer space increases velocity by firing its rockets. How can hot gases escaping from its rockets change the velocity of the craft when there is nothing in space for the gases to push against?

Question

Physics

Elena Kim

6 June, 09:22

A spacecraft in outer space increases velocity by firing its rockets. How can hot gases escaping from its rockets change the velocity of the craft when there is nothing in space for the gases to push against?

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Answers (1)

Know the Answer?

House · Answer 1

Momentum is conserved.

Explanation:

-Momentum is conserved.

-By Newton's third law (For every action, there is an equal and opposite reaction.) - the change in momentum of gases in one direction must be balanced by an equal change in momentum of the spacecraft in the opposite direction.