A rocket takes off by ejecting gases downwards, how does this provide lift?

The total momentum of the system must remain constant. Before take off there was a total of no momentum since there was no movement, as the gas is projected downwards, there is a need for a movement of mass in the upward direction to maintain the initial momentum (which was zero). Since the forces are acting in opposite directions, there is a balance.

Answered by Jake B. Physics tutor

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