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SESK: Stuff Everyone Should Know · sesk.info/aero-newton-third-law

Why does exhaust rushing downward push a rocket upward?

Newton's third law pairs action with an equal opposite reaction.

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  1. The exhaust removes gravity
  2. The exhaust pushes on the air below
  3. The rocket and exhaust push oppositely ✔

Why: The engine pushes exhaust one way, and the exhaust pushes the rocket the other way. That paired interaction works even where there is no atmosphere.

Huh, didn't know that: A rocket does not need air to push against.

The dad joke
The exhaust went down, so the rocket took the opposite opinion.
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References

Answer: The rocket and exhaust push oppositely. The engine pushes exhaust one way, and the exhaust pushes the rocket the other way. That paired interaction works even where there is no atmosphere.

  1. Aerospace Dimensions Module 4, Rockets akwg.cap.gov/media/cms/Module_4__Rockets_6660F78F20B68_4ad77.pdf
    for every action, there is an equal and opposite reaction
    Checked 2026-10-10.

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