Newton's logic behind taking force as change in momentum w.r.t time?

Click For Summary
SUMMARY

Newton defined force as the change in momentum per unit time, encapsulated in the equation f = dp/dt. This definition emphasizes the relationship between force and momentum, highlighting that force is a measure of how quickly momentum changes. The discussion also touches on the concept of energy, indicating that greater energy availability allows for more significant physical interactions, such as movement and heating. Understanding these concepts is crucial for grasping the fundamentals of classical mechanics.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of basic physics concepts, particularly momentum and force.
  • Familiarity with calculus, specifically derivatives and integrals.
  • Knowledge of classical mechanics principles.
  • Awareness of energy concepts and their implications in physical systems.
NEXT STEPS
  • Study Newton's laws of motion to grasp the foundational principles of classical mechanics.
  • Learn about the relationship between force, mass, and acceleration using F = ma.
  • Explore the concept of energy in physics, focusing on kinetic and potential energy.
  • Investigate the applications of calculus in physics, particularly in analyzing motion and forces.
USEFUL FOR

Students of physics, educators teaching classical mechanics, and anyone interested in understanding the fundamental principles of force, momentum, and energy in physical systems.

joseph_seb
Messages
6
Reaction score
0
why Newton had taken force as change in momentum per time?
i mean i need to get physical interpretation?what is this force actually?
also help me to get an idea about energy in sense(core concept)?
not with some equations?
i see these equations every time?but didn't know meanining?
somebody please help with these or give the name of texts which i should refer to?
Calculus was invented by Newton in order to discuss the way that things vary in a concise way,ie,if it is integral calculus,it is the summation of continuous values represented by function,ie we it has a meaning;i'd like to get a simliar kinda explanation,ie,how the eqn f=dp/dt states what happens so much better than a long sentence involving instances and examples;ie,if u were the one to formulate this eqn, why would you define force like this?
 
Physics news on Phys.org
Newton observed that the change in momentum can be important in equations. Therefore, he named this quantity. It is now known as "force".

what is this force actually?
The derivative of the momentum with respect to time ("its change in time"), using the definition from above.

also help me to get an idea about energy in sense(core concept)?
More energy available -> more stuff you can move around, break, heat, whatever
 

Similar threads

  • · Replies 35 ·
2
Replies
35
Views
5K
  • · Replies 5 ·
Replies
5
Views
2K
  • · Replies 17 ·
Replies
17
Views
2K
  • · Replies 11 ·
Replies
11
Views
2K
  • · Replies 131 ·
5
Replies
131
Views
9K
Replies
30
Views
5K
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
2K
  • · Replies 7 ·
Replies
7
Views
2K
  • · Replies 5 ·
Replies
5
Views
1K
  • · Replies 25 ·
Replies
25
Views
3K