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Q:

Why do rockets need an engine?

A:

Rockets need an engine to provide thrust, which is what causes the rocket to lift off the ground. For example, the Saturn V rocket that put the first men on the moon needed 7.5 million pounds of thrust just to get the first 40 miles off the ground. Most rockets, especially those going to space, need multiple engines to give enough thrust to get off the ground and reach their destination. 

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