How Does a Rocket Launch?
Investigate how rockets launch into space using powerful propulsion systems and Newton's laws of motion. Perfect for young scientists eager to understand the world through fun, engaging content.
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February 27, 2025
3:46 listen
Fizz, Pop, Wow!
Rockets launch by using Newton's third law of motion: for every action, there is an equal and opposite reaction. As powerful engines burn fuel to create hot gases that blast downward, these gases push the rocket upward with enough force to overcome Earth's gravity and escape the atmosphere.
What Makes Rockets Lift Off?
Three… two… one… Blast off! When a rocket launches, it shoots into the sky with a trail of fire and smoke. But it’s not magic—it’s science and engineering. Rockets follow Newton’s third law of motion: For every action, there is an equal and opposite reaction.
When a rocket pushes hot gases down, those gases push the rocket up!
How Rockets Get to Space
Here's how a rocket launch works step-by-step:
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Engines fire up – Fuel burns, creating hot gases.
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Thrust pushes up – Gases rush out the bottom, pushing the rocket upward.
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Stages drop off – Empty parts fall away to make the rocket lighter.
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Orbit time! – The rocket tilts and begins orbiting Earth—or heads deeper into space.
Some rockets, like SpaceX's Falcon 9, can even land and be used again!
Try It: Balloon Rocket Launch
Test Newton’s third law at home with this balloon-powered launch!
Try It: Balloon Rocket Launch
Materials Needed:
- Balloon
- Open space
- Tape (optional)
- String and straw (optional for guided version)
Steps to Follow:
- Blow up a balloon (don’t tie it).
- Hold the balloon and let go.
- Watch how it zooms across the room!
- The air rushing out pushes the balloon forward—just like a real rocket.
Your Challenge
Try launching your own balloon rocket and see how far it can go. Then next time you watch a rocket launch, look closely—can you spot the stages dropping off?
Your Challenge
Try launching your own balloon rocket and see how far it can go. Then next time you watch a rocket launch, look closely—can you spot the stages dropping off?
Key Takeaways
- Rockets launch by pushing hot gases downward, which pushes the rocket upward—thanks to Newton’s third law.
- They burn fuel to create thrust and drop stages to get lighter.
- Some rockets, like SpaceX’s Falcon 9, can land and be reused.
- You can test rocket power at home with a balloon and see the same forces at work!