The force that accelerates a rocket in outer space is exerted on the rocket by the (A) a) rocket's wings. (B) b) atmospheric pressure. (C) c) rocket's nose cone. (D) d) exhaust gases. (E) e) none of these

When a rocket fires its engines, it expels exhaust gases at high speed in the opposite direction of its intended motion. This reaction is described by Newton's Third Law of Motion, which states that for every action, there is an equal and opposite reaction. Thus, the force that propels the rocket forward comes from the pressure of the exhaust gases being pushed out, enabling it to accelerate even in the vacuum of space. Interestingly, rockets do not require atmospheric pressure to operate, which is why they're capable of functioning in the vast emptiness of outer space. The lack of air means no wings or other aerodynamic features are needed—just that powerful push from the exhaust gases to zoom through the cosmos!