Which statement explains how the spacecraft left the surface of the earth?
(1 point)
Responses
The spacecraft applied a downward force of thrust that was equal to the downward force of gravity.
The spacecraft applied a downward force of thrust that was equal to the downward force of gravity.
The spacecraft applied an upward force of thrust that was equal to the downward force of gravity.
The spacecraft applied an upward force of thrust that was equal to the downward force of gravity.
The spacecraft applied an upward force of thrust that was greater than the downward force of gravity.
The spacecraft applied an upward force of thrust that was greater than the downward force of gravity.
The spacecraft applied a downward force of thrust that was less than the downward force of gravity.
The spacecraft applied an upward force of thrust that was greater than the downward force of gravity.
The correct statement is:
The spacecraft applied an upward force of thrust that was greater than the downward force of gravity.
The correct statement that explains how the spacecraft left the surface of the earth is:
The spacecraft applied an upward force of thrust that was greater than the downward force of gravity.
To understand why this statement is correct, we need to consider the forces acting on the spacecraft during liftoff. The downward force of gravity, caused by Earth's gravitational pull, is acting on the spacecraft. In order to overcome this force and achieve liftoff, the spacecraft needs to generate an upward force of thrust that is greater than the downward force of gravity.
This is achieved by powerful engines or rockets located on the spacecraft. When these engines are ignited, they expel high-speed gases or propellant in the opposite direction with great force. According to Newton's third law of motion, for every action, there is an equal and opposite reaction. So, as the engines expel the propellant downward, the spacecraft experiences a reaction force in the upward direction.
By generating an upward force of thrust greater than the downward force of gravity, the spacecraft can overcome the gravitational force pulling it towards the Earth's surface. This allows the spacecraft to lift off and leave the surface of the Earth, eventually entering space.