What is the Definition of the SI Unit of Force?

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SUMMARY

The Newton is defined as the SI unit of force, specifically the force required to accelerate a mass of 1 kilogram at a rate of 1 meter per second squared (1 m/s²). Additionally, 1 kilogram of mass corresponds to a weight of approximately 9.8 Newtons due to Earth's gravitational acceleration (9.8 m/s²). This distinction clarifies the difference between mass and weight, emphasizing that while mass is a measure of matter, weight is the force exerted by gravity on that mass.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of basic physics concepts, particularly force and mass
  • Familiarity with SI units and their definitions
  • Knowledge of gravitational acceleration on Earth (9.8 m/s²)
  • Basic mathematical skills for unit conversion and calculations
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the relationship between mass and weight in different gravitational fields
  • Learn about other SI units of measurement and their applications
  • Explore Newton's laws of motion and their implications in physics
  • Study the concept of force in various contexts, such as friction and tension
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Students of physics, educators teaching basic science concepts, and anyone interested in understanding the fundamentals of force and its measurement in the context of SI units.

WingZero
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Hello,




What is the definition for Newton
 
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Its the SI unit of force equal to the force required to accelerate 1kg at 1 g (9.8m/s^2).
 
Is it not the force required to accelerate a 1kg mass at 1m/s^2?

Doug
 
Originally posted by Doug
Is it not the force required to accelerate a 1kg mass at 1m/s^2?

Doug

Yes, 1 Newton of force will accelerate a mass of 1 Kg at 1 m/s^2.

The kilogram is sometimes used as a measure of weight, mostly outside the realm of science; 1 kg weight being equivalent to 9.8 Newtons. As far as SI units go, a mass of 1 kg weighs 9.8 Newtons, Newtons being the SI unit of force/weight. That's on earth, of course.
 
Last edited:

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