Newton's Third Law applies here as well; the action of separating the dead weight allows the reaction (the acceleration of the remaining rocket) to become more effective. The external pressure changes, but the internal physics remains the driving force; the rocket moves because it throws mass behind it, regardless of the surrounding environment.
Space Vacuum Newton's 3rd Law Rocket: How Thrust Works in a Vacuum
By gimbaling the engine nozzle—or using vernier thrusters—operators can tilt the direction of the exhaust flow. Unlike a car engine that pushes against the road, a rocket carries both its fuel and its oxidizer, expelling mass rearward to generate thrust in the opposite direction.
Real-World Applications and Limitations. These gases seek equilibrium by rushing toward the path of least resistance, which is the nozzle.
Space Vacuum Newton's 3rd Law Rocket: How Thrust Works in a Vacuum
The direction of this thrust is what steers the rocket. The reaction is an equal and opposite force that pushes the rocket forward.
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More perspective on How does newton's 3rd law apply to rockets can make the topic easier to follow by connecting earlier points with a few simple takeaways.
