Same force, different acceleration
Net force changes velocity. The same force gives a larger mass less acceleration.
| Mass | Net force | Acceleration |
|---|---|---|
| 2 kg | 6 N | 3 m/s² |
| 3 kg | 6 N | 2 m/s² |
One worked example
- F = maF is the vector sum of all forces.
- a = F/m = 6/2 = 3 m/s²For a mass of 2 kg, a net force of 6 N produces this acceleration.
Watch out: This uses classical mechanics, constant mass and an inertial frame. Zero net force means zero acceleration, not necessarily zero velocity.
Goal, prerequisites and card origin
What you will learn: Find acceleration from net force and mass.
What you need first: Mass in kg, force in N, acceleration in m/s².
An original PEAZIT working card. Independent expert review and effectiveness testing have not yet taken place. · v1
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Net force changes velocity. The same force gives a larger mass less acceleration.