1. Jan 4, 2015 #1

   Aichuk

   

   Now let's say I push a box. The box will accelerate (before stopping due to friction). But when I push the box the box 'pushes' me too. I heard that acceleration occurs only when there is a force imbalance. But if the two forces are equal, then how could this cause an acceleration?
   Please explain easily as I am inexperienced in this matter.

    

   Aichuk, Jan 4, 2015
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3. Jan 4, 2015 #2

   sophiecentaur

   

   Science Advisor

   Gold Member

   The two forces are equal and opposite:true.
   But there is only one force on the box, due to your push.
   The third law (reaction) is not the same as the first law (equilibrium / non equilibrium).

    

   sophiecentaur, Jan 4, 2015
4. Jan 4, 2015 #3

   A.T.

   

   Science Advisor

   Gold Member

   https://www.lhup.edu/~dsimanek/physics/horsecart.htm
   
   https://www.physicsforums.com/threads/newtons-third-law.790299/

    

   A.T., Jan 4, 2015

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