Newton's second law
F equals ma
Newton's second law is a fundamental principle of physics stating that the force acting on an object equals its mass multiplied by its acceleration, expressed as F = ma.
This relationship explains why heavier objects require more force to accelerate at the same rate as lighter ones, and why the same force produces less acceleration on a more massive object.
The law forms the foundation for classical mechanics and engineering calculations involving motion and force.
- rocket propulsionThrust from expelled gases
- forceStrength or compulsion
- massQuantity of matter
- net forceSum of acting forces
- free body diagramSketch of forces on object
acceleration · rate of change · projectile motion · momentum · inertia · falling objects · air resistance · impulse · roller coasters · gravitational force · velocity · conservation of energy · torque · dynamics · centripetal force · units of measurement · kinematics · friction
Newton's second lawHeisenberg uncertainty principle
Fundamental quantum measurement limit
special relativity · general relativity · quantum mechanics · Schrödinger equation · E=mc²