What are the three phases of a typical rocket flight?

The correct answer identifies the three distinct phases of a typical rocket flight as ascent, coast, and descent. In the ascent phase, the rocket is propelled upward through its engines, gaining altitude and speed. This phase encompasses the launch and initial climb until the fuel is nearly depleted. The coast phase follows, during which the rocket travels upward and reaches its maximum altitude, often referred to as apogee. During this period, the rocket is not under thrust from its engines; instead, it is coasting due to inertia and can experience various aerodynamic conditions until it starts its journey back down. Finally, the descent phase occurs when the rocket re-enters the denser atmosphere, descending back to the ground under various control mechanisms. This explanation encompasses the entire trajectory of a rocket flight, highlighting key components of each phase that are crucial for understanding rocket dynamics and mission planning.