Forces & Newton’s Laws Calculator
Calculate Force, Mass, and Acceleration (F=ma).
Select Unknown Variable
Result
What is Newton's Second Law?
Newton's Second Law of Motion describes the relationship between force, mass, and acceleration. It states that acceleration is directly proportional to force and inversely proportional to mass.
This fundamental law explains why heavier objects require more force to accelerate and is essential for understanding motion in physics.
To calculate kinematic variables like velocity or displacement, use our Kinematics Motion Calculator.
To see how forces relate to energy and work, check out our Work–Energy–Power Calculator.
For analyzing projectile trajectories under gravity, explore our Projectile Motion Calculator.
Formula
F = m * a
- F = Net Force (Newtons, N)
- m = Mass (Kilograms, kg)
- a = Acceleration (m/s²)
Key Concepts
- • Net Force: The vector sum of all forces acting on an object.
- • Inertia: Objects resist changes in motion; mass measures inertia.
- • Proportionality: Double the force doubles the acceleration at constant mass.
How to Use This Calculator
Select Unknown
Choose which variable to calculate.
Input Values
Enter the two known values.
Calculate
Get instant F, m, or a result.
Benefits of Using This Calculator
- • Solve for Any Variable: Calculate force, mass, or acceleration from two knowns.
- • Quick & Accurate: Instant results with proper unit handling.
- • Educational: Ideal for physics students learning Newton's Laws.
Factors Affecting Results
- • Mass: Greater mass results in lower acceleration for the same force.
- • Net Force: Must account for all forces including friction and air resistance.
- • Direction: Force and acceleration are vectors with magnitude and direction.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is Newton's Second Law?
A: Newton's Second Law states that force equals mass times acceleration (F = ma). It means that the acceleration of an object is directly proportional to the net force acting on it and inversely proportional to its mass.
Q: What is net force?
A: Net force is the vector sum of all forces acting on an object. If the net force is zero, the object is either at rest or moving with constant velocity.
Q: What is the unit of force?
A: The SI unit of force is the Newton (N), which is equal to kg·m/s².