Newton’s Second and Third Laws of Motion

Categories Physics

Course Description

Newton’s Second and Third Laws of Motion is a core physics module that builds on the concept of inertia introduced in Newton’s First Law.

This lesson dives into the mechanics of how forces influence motion and how interactions between objects are governed by equal and opposite reactions. These laws are foundational to understanding everything from rocket launches to car crashes, and they form the basis of engineering, biomechanics, and everyday physics.

What You’ll Learn

⚙️ By the end of this lesson, you’ll be able to:

  • Explain Newton’s Second Law of Motion:
    • Force = Mass × Acceleration (F = ma)
        • Understand how the amount of force applied to an object affects its acceleration
        • Explore how mass influences the response to a given force
        • Apply the formula to calculate force, mass, or acceleration in various scenarios
  • Understand Newton’s Third Law of Motion:
    • For every action, there is an equal and opposite reaction
      • Identify action-reaction force pairs in real-world interactions (e.g., a swimmer pushing against water, a rocket expelling gas)
      • Recognize how these forces act on different bodies simultaneously
  • Apply both laws to practical situations, such as:
    • Vehicle dynamics and crash safety
    • Sports performance and equipment design
    • Space travel and propulsion systems
    • Everyday examples like walking, jumping, or pushing objects

Who This Lesson Is For

This lesson is perfect for students beginning their study of physics, educators teaching mechanics, or anyone curious about how forces shape motion in the world around us.

A free course by

M
Course Duration: 30m
Course level:Beginner
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Requirements

  • Basic math skills for solving equations
  • Interest in physical science and real-world applications

Tags

Force, mass, and acceleration Newton’s Second Law Newton’s Third Law

Target Audience

  • Middle and high school physics students
  • First-year college science majors
  • Educators teaching classical mechanics
  • Engineers and athletes interested in applied physics
  • Lifelong learners fascinated by how things move and interact

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