Multistage rockets are used in launching satellites to gradually increase velocity. Each stage provides thrust, discarding parts when no longer needed, making the process more efficient.
Class 11 Physics
Gravitation
CBSE EXAM 2024-25
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Multistage rockets are essential for launching satellites into space. The escape velocity at the Earth’s surface is 11.2 km/s, but to place a satellite at a suitable height, even higher velocities are needed. Achieving such speeds requires multistage rockets, typically with three stages, where the satellite is housed in the final stage.
At liftoff, the rocket produces a large thrust to overcome gravity and air resistance, accelerating upward through the dense atmosphere quickly. Once the fuel in the first stage is depleted, the stage is detached to reduce weight. The rocket then tilts and continues upward with the second stage, which is also detached after its fuel is spent.
The final stage turns the satellite horizontally and imparts the required speed to place it in a stable orbit around the Earth. This step-by-step process ensures efficient use of fuel and minimizes the weight of the rocket as it ascends.