Physics · Forces and motion
Force, Mass and Acceleration (F = ma)
Newton's second law links force, mass and acceleration. Friction opposes the push.
- Net force
- 40 N
- Acceleration a = F ÷ m
- 8 m/s²
- Speed now
- 0 m/s
Friction (μ = 0.3)
Try this
- Double the force. What happens to acceleration?
- Double the mass with the same force.
- Turn friction on. Find the smallest push that moves the box.
Key ideas
- F = m × a
- Friction acts against motion: friction = μ × m × g.
- Net force = applied force − friction.