What are the three forces acting upon a rocket during its flight?

During a rocket's flight, the three primary forces at play are weight, thrust, and aerodynamic drag.

Weight is the force due to gravity acting on the rocket, pulling it down towards the Earth. This force is constant throughout the flight, provided that the rocket's mass does not change significantly after the initial stages of flight.

Thrust is generated by the rocket's engines and acts in the opposite direction to weight. This force propels the rocket upward and is critical for overcoming gravity during launch and ascent.

Aerodynamic drag occurs as the rocket moves through the atmosphere. It is caused by air resistance and acts opposite to the direction of the rocket's motion. Understanding how these forces interact is essential for predicting the rocket's trajectory and performance.

These three forces together determine the rocket's flight dynamics and stability. Each force must be carefully managed to ensure a successful launch and ascent, making familiarity with them crucial for anyone pursuing rocketry and certification within the Tripoli Rocketry Association.