Conceptual Physics (12th Edition)

Published by Addison-Wesley
ISBN 10: 0321909100
ISBN 13: 978-0-32190-910-7

Chapter 6 - Think and Discuss - Page 107-108: 90

Answer

Consider the rocket and its exhaust gases as a single system, with no initial momentum. Momentum in this rocket-gas system is conserved if no external forces act on it. If the gases are expelled, gaining momentum by their movement, the rocket body and remaining unburned fuel gains equal and opposite momentum. The system momentum remains at zero.

Work Step by Step

This is discussed on page 97.
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