Newton's third law: Rower makes boat move forward

In summary, according to Newton's third law of motion, a rower is able to move a boat forward by exerting a force on the oars, which creates an equal and opposite reaction pushing the boat forward. This is possible due to the principle of inertia, where the boat resists changes in motion. The rower's body weight also plays a role in this process by exerting a force in the opposite direction. Other real-life examples of Newton's third law include a rocket launching, a person walking, and a balloon flying. Additionally, the surface of the water can affect the rower's ability to move the boat forward, with rough or choppy water creating more resistance and calm water creating less resistance.
  • #1
Evangeline101
112
5

Homework Statement


Use Newton's third law to explain how a rower makes his rowing boat move forward through the water.

Homework Equations


no equations required

The Attempt at a Solution


According to Newton's third law, there is a reaction force for every action force. In this case, the action force of the rower using the paddle to push the water has a reaction force of the water pushing back on the boat with an equal but opposite force, propelling the boat forward.

Is this correct?
 
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  • #2
Evangeline101 said:
Is this correct

Yep.
 
  • #3
mfig said:
Yep.

Okay, thanks for verifying my answer :)
 

1. How does Newton's third law apply to a rower making a boat move forward?

According to Newton's third law of motion, for every action, there is an equal and opposite reaction. In the case of a rower making a boat move forward, the rower exerts a force on the oars, pushing them backwards. This action creates an equal and opposite reaction, pushing the boat forward.

2. Why is the rower able to move the boat forward with just their oars?

The rower is able to move the boat forward because of the principle of inertia. The boat is initially at rest and resists any changes in its motion. When the rower exerts a force on the oars, it overcomes the boat's inertia and accelerates it forward.

3. Does the rower's body weight play a role in Newton's third law when rowing?

Yes, the rower's body weight does play a role in Newton's third law when rowing. As the rower pushes against the oars, their body weight also exerts a force on the boat in the opposite direction, helping to propel the boat forward.

4. Can you provide an example of Newton's third law in other real-life situations?

Yes, there are many examples of Newton's third law in real-life situations. Some examples include a rocket launching into space, a person walking on the ground, and a balloon flying through the air. In all of these situations, there is a force exerted in one direction that creates an equal and opposite force in the opposite direction.

5. How does the surface of the water affect the rower's ability to move the boat forward?

The surface of the water can affect the rower's ability to move the boat forward. If the water is rough or choppy, it can create more resistance for the boat, making it harder for the rower to move it forward. On the other hand, if the water is calm and smooth, there is less resistance, making it easier for the rower to move the boat forward.

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