Question

A rocket with its thruster on is speeding up towards the Moon. Therefore, what type of force is acting on the rocket? A. zero net force B. frictional force C. balanced force D. unbalanced force

Answer 1

`\boxed{\text{D. Unbalanced force}}`

Step-by-step explanation:

If a rocket is at rest or moving at a constant velocity, the forces on it are balanced.

If the engines are ignited in flight, the thrust from the propellant gases unbalances the forces, and the rocket speeds up.

A is wrong. There can't be zero net force if the rocket is accelerating.

B is wrong. There is no friction in space.

C is wrong. The forces can't be balanced if the rocket is accelerating.