Which parts of a high power rocket are considered structural or load-bearing?

The parts of a high power rocket that are considered structural or load-bearing include the nose cone, body tube, and fins.

The nose cone is designed to minimize aerodynamic drag and helps in guiding the rocket through the air. It is usually constructed from strong materials that can withstand aerodynamic stresses during flight. The body tube is the main component of the rocket that houses the propulsion system and payload. It provides structural integrity and must support the forces experienced during launch and flight. Fins play a crucial role in stability and control, helping to maintain a straight flight path by providing aerodynamic forces that counteract any deviations.

Understanding the roles of these components is crucial for ensuring the structural integrity of the rocket during all phases of flight. Other options include components that do not provide main structural support or are considered secondary in terms of load-bearing capacity. For instance, recovery devices are designed for safety during descent but do not contribute to the rocket's structural framework. Similarly, the launch rod primarily serves as a guide during launch rather than a structural component of the rocket itself.