Which three forces are acting upon a rocket during flight?

The correct answer highlights the primary forces acting on a rocket during its flight—gravity, thrust, and aerodynamic drag.

Gravity is a constant force pulling the rocket down toward the Earth. Its strength depends on the mass of the rocket and the distance to the center of the Earth, acting against the rocket's ability to ascend.

Thrust is the force generated by the rocket's engines, propelling it upward. This force is crucial for overcoming gravity at the beginning of the flight and for maintaining speed during ascent.

Aerodynamic drag is the resistance encountered as the rocket moves through the atmosphere. This drag works against the rocket's motion, requiring the engines to produce sufficient thrust to overcome it.

These three forces interact continuously throughout the rocket's flight, influencing its trajectory, speed, and altitude. Understanding these forces is essential for rocket design and flight dynamics, as they determine how effectively a rocket can ascend and reach its intended destination.