Explain Newton's laws of motion

The first law is that an object will remain at a constant velocity or stationary (which is just a constant velocity of zero) unless acted upon by an external force.

Once acted upon by this force, then the second law comes into play. This says that F = ma, or Force equals mass times the acceleration of the object.

The third law is easily stated as every action has an equal and opposite reaction. This means the sizes of the forces on the objects will be the same, but the forces will be in opposite directions.

HM
Answered by Harry M. Physics tutor

3849 Views

See similar Physics GCSE tutors

Related Physics GCSE answers

All answers ▸

Explain Ohm's Law


What is centripetal force?


Describe the difference between reflection and refraction (assume the mediums have smooth surfaces)


A mass of 2.5kg is raised by a height of 8m in 36 seconds using an electronic motor. Calculate the power of the motor.


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

MyTutor is part of the IXL family of brands:

© 2026 by IXL Learning