AAMC FL Practice Exam

The formula F = ma illustrates which law of motion?

1. First law of motion

2. Second law of motion

3. Third law of motion

4. Law of universal gravitation

The correct answer is: Second law of motion

The formula F = ma represents the Second Law of Motion, which is fundamental in understanding how forces affect the motion of an object. This law states that the force acting on an object is equal to the mass of that object multiplied by its acceleration. This relationship highlights that an increase in force will result in a proportional increase in acceleration, provided the mass remains constant. It also implies that for a given force, an object with a larger mass will experience a smaller acceleration compared to an object with a smaller mass. This principle is critical in dynamics and helps predict how objects will behave when various forces are applied. In contrast, the First Law of Motion describes the concept of inertia, stating that an object at rest will stay at rest and an object in motion will continue in motion at a constant velocity unless acted upon by a net external force. The Third Law of Motion states that for every action, there is an equal and opposite reaction, outlining the interactions between two bodies. The Law of Universal Gravitation, on the other hand, explains the gravitational attraction between two masses, formalized by another equation. Thus, the clear association of the formula F = ma with the Second Law of Motion underscores its role in defining the relationship between force, mass, and