Veda · OUT OF PURE CURIOSITY
What pushes a rocket?
Engine off · Low thrust · High thrust
Engine off
Start with the engine off. The rocket rests on its pad: the support holds it up while Earth pulls it down.
Low thrust
The engine pushes gas down, and the gas pushes the rocket up. Here thrust is still smaller than weight, so it does not lift off.
High thrust
Increase thrust. When it exceeds weight, the rocket accelerates upward. Rockets also work in space: they do not need air to push against.
For adults · discuss together
Only the first seconds of launch are shown. Mass is constant and air resistance is ignored.
Before experience
Ask: “What do you think will happen?” Let the child check his guess first.
After the experience
What has changed? What remains the same? Where can you notice a similar phenomenon?
