What is Newton's Second Law?
Newton's Second Law states that force equals mass times acceleration, expressed as F = ma.
This fundamental principle of physics means that the acceleration of an object is directly proportional to the net force acting on it and inversely proportional to its mass. The law provides the mathematical relationship between force, mass, and acceleration.
The Formula Explained
F = Force measured in newtons (N)
m = Mass measured in kilograms (kg)
a = Acceleration measured in meters per second squared (m/s²)
Examples
Example 1: Pushing a Shopping Cart
A 10 kg shopping cart accelerates at 2 m/s² when pushed. The force applied is F = (10 kg)(2 m/s²) = 20 N.
Example 2: Car Acceleration
A 1000 kg car accelerates at 3 m/s². The engine produces F = (1000 kg)(3 m/s²) = 3000 N of force.
Key Concepts
- More force means more acceleration
- More mass means less acceleration for the same force
- If force is zero, acceleration is zero (object maintains constant velocity)
- The law applies to all objects, regardless of size
Ready to learn by doing?
Join Veelearn for free interactive STEM courses, simulations, and AI-assisted learning — and earn volunteer hours by creating educational content.
Join Veelearn