Newton's 2nd Law: Force, Mass, & Acceleration

In summary, the conversation discusses the relationship between force, mass, and acceleration. It is clarified that force is involved when there is either an increase or decrease in velocity, and that a deceleration is considered a negative acceleration. The formula for force is stated as mass multiplied by the instantaneous rate of change of velocity.
  • #1
Alan3030
2
0
Apologies for what I assume is a rookie question. Given F=ma if you have a 1 kg object traveling in e.g. space say x @ 100m/s then F = 0 on that object. If you have another 1kg object say y sitting at 0 m/s, F=0. If they impact there must be force involved? Does negative acceleration give you a F? if so what's the math?
 
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  • #2
Yes a force is involved anytime there is an acceleration an increase in velocity or a deceleration a decrease in velocity. A deceleration is a negative acceleration. Force on an object is equal to the mass of the object times the instantaneous time rate of change of its velocity.
 
  • #3
Thanks that makes sense now :)
 

1. What is Newton's 2nd Law?

Newton's 2nd Law is a fundamental principle in physics that describes the relationship between force, mass, and acceleration.

2. What is the formula for Newton's 2nd Law?

The formula for Newton's 2nd Law is F=ma, where F represents force, m represents mass, and a represents acceleration.

3. How does Newton's 2nd Law relate to everyday life?

Newton's 2nd Law can be observed in everyday life through various examples such as a car accelerating when the gas pedal is pressed or a person feeling a force when pushing a heavy object.

4. Can Newton's 2nd Law be applied to objects with varying mass?

Yes, Newton's 2nd Law can be applied to objects with varying mass. The force required to produce a certain acceleration will vary depending on the mass of the object.

5. Is Newton's 2nd Law applicable to all types of motion?

Yes, Newton's 2nd Law is applicable to all types of motion, whether it is linear, rotational, or circular. It describes the relationship between force, mass, and acceleration for any type of motion.

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