What is Newton's Third Law and what is an example of it?

Newton's Third Law looks at what happens when two objects interact with each other. The definition of Newton's Third Law is, "When one body exerts a force on a second body, the second body simultaneously exerts a force equal in magnitude and opposite in direction on the first body." Explained simply: When one object exerts a force on a second object, the second object is also exerting a force on the first object at the same time. This force will be the same size but in the opposite direction. An example of this is when you push on the wall. As you push on the wall, you will feel your hands squash slightly meaning you feel a force. This is because the wall is also pushing on you at the same time. So Newton's third law explains why we feel objects when we touch them or why objects can change direction when they hit an obstacle.

Answered by Maxwell O. Physics tutor

4202 Views

See similar Physics A Level tutors

Related Physics A Level answers

All answers ▸

From the definition of the decay constant for nuclear decay, derive the exponential decay equation.


A diver of mass 60kg stands on the end of a diving board of length 2m from the pivot point. Calculate the upward force exerted on the retaining spring 30cm from the pivot point.


An electron is accelerated through a uniform electric field of strength, E= 20 [N/C]. Determine the speed after the the electron travels 0.5 m from rest.


An electron falling from one energy level to another emits a photon of wavelength 550nm. What is the difference between the two energy levels?


We're here to help

contact us iconContact usWhatsapp logoMessage us on Whatsapptelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

© MyTutorWeb Ltd 2013–2024

Terms & Conditions|Privacy Policy