PVG'S College of Engineering
Department of Engineering Sciences and Humanities
Mini Project Report
Rocket Science Decoded
Understanding Newton's Third Law Through Simple Experimentation
Academic Year: 2025-26
Guide: Prof. Archana Mirashi
Submitted By:
1) Madhav Kendre – E-29
2) Ishant Kshirsagar – E-33
3) Shreyas Pakhare – E-42
Table of Contents
1. Abstract
2. Introduction
3. Objectives
4. Theory and Physics Concepts
5. Materials Required
6. Experimental Setup and Procedure
7. Working Principle
8. Observations and Results
9. Applications
10. Advantages and Limitations
11. Conclusion
12. References
1. Abstract
This project demonstrates the basic principle behind rocket propulsion using a
simple balloon experiment. The experiment is based on Newton’s Third Law of
Motion, which states that for every action there is an equal and opposite reaction. In
this project, air escaping from an inflated balloon creates thrust that moves the
balloon forward along a string path. The model helps students understand concepts
such as thrust, momentum, air pressure, friction, and aerodynamics in a simple and
practical way. The experiment is low-cost, easy to perform, and useful for
understanding the working principle of real rockets and spacecraft.
2. Introduction
Rocket science is one of the most fascinating applications of physics. Rockets are
used for launching satellites, space exploration, defence systems, and scientific
research. Although real rockets use complex engines and fuels, the basic principle
behind their motion can be demonstrated using a simple balloon rocket experiment.
This project helps students visualize how gases escaping in one direction produce
motion in the opposite direction. The experiment also improves understanding of
force, motion, and pressure through practical observation.
3. Objectives
The objectives of this project are to understand Newton’s Third Law of Motion,
demonstrate rocket propulsion using a balloon, study the effect of air pressure on
motion, observe the role of friction and aerodynamics, and relate the experiment to
real-world rocket applications such as ISRO launch vehicles and spacecraft.
4. Theory and Physics Concepts
Newton’s Third Law states that every action has an equal and opposite reaction. In
the balloon rocket experiment, the escaping air acts as the action force, while the
balloon moving forward acts as the reaction force. The project also involves
concepts of momentum, thrust, air pressure, friction, and aerodynamics. Thrust is
the force that pushes the rocket forward, while momentum is conserved during the
motion. Friction and air resistance oppose the movement and affect the speed of the
balloon.
5. Materials Required
The materials required for this project are a colourful balloon, drinking straw,
adhesive tape, long thread or string, and two fixed support points such as chairs or
poles. These materials are inexpensive and easily available.
6. Experimental Setup and Procedure
First, the string is passed through the straw and tied tightly between two fixed
points. A balloon is inflated and taped carefully to the straw. The balloon opening is
held closed until the setup is ready. When the balloon is released, air rushes out
from the opening and the balloon moves forward along the string. The experiment
can be repeated using balloons of different sizes to observe changes in speed and
distance.
7. Working Principle
When the balloon is inflated, compressed air is stored inside it. As the air escapes
from the balloon opening, it produces a backward force. According to Newton’s
Third Law, an equal and opposite force pushes the balloon forward. This forward
force is called thrust. The balloon continues moving until the air pressure decreases
or friction stops the motion.
8. Observations and Results
During the experiment, it was observed that the balloon moved rapidly in the
forward direction when released. Balloons with greater air pressure travelled a
larger distance and moved faster. Friction between the straw and string affected the
smoothness of motion. The experiment successfully demonstrated the concept of
rocket propulsion and Newton’s Third Law of Motion.
9. Applications
The principles used in this project are applied in real rockets, spacecraft, jet
propulsion systems, missile technology, and satellite launch vehicles. Organizations
such as ISRO and NASA use the same laws of physics for launching satellites and
conducting space missions.
10. Advantages and Limitations
This project is simple, economical, and easy to understand. It provides practical
learning of important physics concepts. However, the model has limitations because
it uses only air pressure and cannot represent the complete complexity of real
rocket systems. Friction and air leakage can also affect the results.
11. Conclusion
The balloon rocket experiment successfully demonstrated Newton’s Third Law of
Motion and the principle of rocket propulsion. The project helped in understanding
how thrust is generated and how rockets move in space. It proved that simple
experiments can effectively explain complex scientific concepts in an easy and
interactive manner.
12. References
1. NCERT Physics Textbook
2. Basics of Rocket Propulsion – ISRO
3. Newton’s Laws of Motion – Engineering Physics Notes
4. Educational videos and classroom demonstrations related to balloon rockets
Acknowledgement
We would like to express our sincere gratitude to Prof. Archana Mirashi for her
valuable guidance and support throughout this project. We also thank PVG'S College
of Engineering for providing the facilities and encouragement required for
completing this mini project successfully.