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F=ma

Definition

F=ma is Newton's second law of motion, which states that the force acting on an object is equal to the mass of the object multiplied by its acceleration.

Analogy

Imagine you're pushing a shopping cart. The harder you push (force), the faster it accelerates (speeds up). If you push a heavier cart (mass), it will be harder to accelerate.

Related terms

Force: A push or pull on an object that can cause it to accelerate.

Mass: The amount of matter in an object, which determines its resistance to acceleration.

Acceleration: The rate at which an object changes its velocity over time.



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© 2024 Fiveable Inc. All rights reserved.

AP® and SAT® are trademarks registered by the College Board, which is not affiliated with, and does not endorse this website.