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Rocket Thrust

Definition

Rocket thrust refers to the force that propels a rocket forward. It is generated by the expulsion of high-speed exhaust gases from the rocket's engines.

Related terms

Newton's Third Law: This law states that for every action, there is an equal and opposite reaction. In the case of rocket thrust, as gases are expelled backward, an equal and opposite force propels the rocket forward.

Thrust-to-weight ratio: This ratio compares the amount of thrust produced by a rocket to its weight. A higher thrust-to-weight ratio allows rockets to accelerate more quickly.

Specific impulse: Specific impulse measures how efficiently a rocket engine uses fuel. It is defined as the change in momentum per unit mass of propellant consumed.

"Rocket Thrust" appears in:

Study guides (1)

  • AP Physics 1 - 5.1 Momentum and Impulse

collegeable - rocket pep

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About Us

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Cram Mode

AP Score Calculators

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© 2024 Fiveable Inc. All rights reserved.

AP® and SAT® are trademarks registered by the College Board, which is not affiliated with, and does not endorse this website.