Understanding Newton's Third Law of Motion
Newton’s Third Law of Motion states that for every action, there is an equal and opposite reaction. This means that when an object exerts a force on another object, the second object will exert an equal and opposite force on the first object. This law is often referred to as the “action-reaction” law.
Examples of Newton's Third Law
Let’s consider some examples to illustrate this concept:
- Walking: When you walk, your feet exert a force on the ground in one direction. The ground, in turn, exerts an equal and opposite force on your feet in the opposite direction, allowing you to move forward.
- Throwing a Ball: When you throw a ball, your hand exerts a force on the ball, propelling it forward. The ball, in turn, exerts an equal and opposite force on your hand, which you can feel as the ball leaves your hand.
- Driving a Car: When you press the accelerator pedal in a car, the engine exerts a force on the wheels, causing them to turn. The wheels, in turn, exert an equal and opposite force on the engine, which you can feel as the car accelerates forward.
Worksheet Answers and Examples
Here are some examples of Newton’s Third Law, along with answers and explanations:
Example 1: A book is lying on a table. The table exerts a force of 10 N on the book, holding it up. What force does the book exert on the table?
Answer: 10 N (equal and opposite reaction)
Example 2: A tennis player hits a ball with a racket. The racket exerts a force of 50 N on the ball. What force does the ball exert on the racket?
Answer: 50 N (equal and opposite reaction)
Example 3: A car is traveling at a constant speed on a straight road. The road exerts a force of 100 N on the car, keeping it on the road. What force does the car exert on the road?
Answer: 100 N (equal and opposite reaction)
More Examples and Answers
| Action | Reaction |
|---|---|
| A swimmer pushes against the water with a force of 20 N | The water exerts a force of 20 N on the swimmer, propelling them forward |
| A guitar string vibrates, exerting a force of 5 N on the guitar | The guitar exerts a force of 5 N on the string, keeping it vibrating |
| A rocket ship blasts off, exerting a force of 1000 N on the ground | The ground exerts a force of 1000 N on the rocket ship, propelling it upward |
🚀 Note: Newton's Third Law applies to all interactions between objects, regardless of their size or complexity.
Summary
Newton’s Third Law is an essential concept in physics, describing the relationship between forces and interactions between objects. By understanding this law, we can better analyze and predict the behavior of objects in various situations.
What is Newton’s Third Law of Motion?
+Newton’s Third Law states that for every action, there is an equal and opposite reaction.
What are some examples of Newton’s Third Law?
+Examples include walking, throwing a ball, driving a car, and more.
How does Newton’s Third Law apply to real-life situations?
+Newton’s Third Law helps us understand and predict the behavior of objects in various situations, from everyday activities to complex scientific phenomena.
Related Terms:
- Newton s Third Law Worksheet Answers
- Newton's first law worksheet PDF
