1. Gravity: This force pulls the rocket towards the center of the Earth, constantly slowing its upward motion.
2. Air Resistance (Drag): This force opposes the rocket's motion through the atmosphere. It decreases as the rocket ascends and the air becomes thinner.
3. Thrust: While the engines are not firing during coasting, there might be a small amount of residual thrust, especially if the rocket is using a staged engine system. This is usually negligible compared to the other two forces.
Important Note: The exact forces acting on a rocket during coasting can vary depending on several factors, including:
* Altitude: The higher the altitude, the less air resistance there is.
* Rocket Design: Different rocket designs have varying aerodynamic properties.
* Atmospheric conditions: Weather patterns can affect air resistance.
In some cases, additional forces like solar radiation pressure or magnetic fields can also have minor effects.
