Question about Newton's 3rd law nd motion

[Aichuk]

Main Question or Discussion Point

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.

 

[sophiecentaur]

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).

 

[A.T.]

But if the two forces are equal, then how could this cause an acceleration?

https://www.lhup.edu/~dsimanek/physics/horsecart.htm

https://www.physicsforums.com/threads/newtons-third-law.790299/