Video narration
Does a rocket need air to push against? A released balloon answers: air rushes backward, and the balloon shoots forward. A rocket uses that trick with control and power. It burns propellant into hot gas, and a nozzle sends the exhaust downward. That backward exhaust gives thrust, pushing the rocket forward. It carries its own propellant, so empty space is no problem. Gas down, rocket up—like a balloon, but powerful and controlled.