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Newton's Third Law

Definition

Newton's Third Law states that for every action, there is an equal and opposite reaction. This means that whenever one body exerts a force on another body, the second body exerts a force back on the first body with equal magnitude but in the opposite direction.

Related terms

Action-Reaction Pair: A pair of forces that two objects exert on each other, always having equal magnitudes but acting in opposite directions.

Momentum: The product of an object's mass and velocity. According to Newton's Third Law, momentum is conserved in a closed system.

Conservation Laws: Principles stating that certain properties (such as momentum or energy) remain constant in a closed system unless acted upon by external forces.

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