This calculator applies Newton's second law of motion, F = ma. Enter an object's mass and acceleration to find the net force acting on it.
What the symbols mean
- F — net force (newtons).
- m — mass (kilograms).
- a — acceleration (metres per second squared).
Worked example
A 1,000 kg car accelerating at 3 m/s² requires a net force of 1000 × 3 = 3,000 N.
How the formula works
Newton's second law, force equals mass times acceleration, is the quantitative heart of mechanics. It says the acceleration an object undergoes is proportional to the net force applied and inversely proportional to its mass. A bigger push gives more acceleration; a heavier object accelerates less for the same push.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Using a single force instead of the net force. F is the total of all forces acting on the object.
- Confusing mass and weight. Mass is in kilograms; weight is a force in newtons.
Where it is used
This law sizes engines, predicts how vehicles accelerate, analyses the forces in structures, and forms the basis for almost every problem in classical mechanics.