What are the three fundamental forces acting on a rocket during flight?

The three fundamental forces acting on a rocket during flight are gravity, thrust, and aerodynamic drag.

Gravity is the force that pulls the rocket toward the Earth, countering its upward motion. It is a constant force acting on the rocket throughout its flight, influencing the trajectory and the need for sufficient thrust to overcome it.

Thrust is the force generated by the rocket's engines, propelling it upward. It is essential for overcoming both gravity and drag to achieve and maintain flight. The amount of thrust can vary throughout the flight as fuel is consumed and engine performance changes.

Aerodynamic drag is the resistance the rocket encounters as it moves through the atmosphere. This force opposes thrust and can significantly impact the rocket's acceleration and speed. Understanding how to minimize drag is crucial for achieving efficient flight performance.

Recognizing these three forces helps in analyzing the rocket's flight dynamics and overall performance. The interaction among thrust, gravity, and drag determines the rocket's achievable altitude, speed, and trajectory during its journey through Earth’s atmosphere and beyond.