Newton's third law can be derived from:

Correct answer: B. Newton's second law

  • A. Newton's first law
  • B. Newton's second law
  • C. Both Options A and B are correct
  • D. They are unrelated

Explanation

Newton's second law provides a mathematical description of force as it relates to mass and acceleration, forming the basis for understanding interactions between objects. From these interactions, Newton's third law can be derived, stating that for every action, there is an equal and opposite reaction. Newton's first law does not offer this mathematical basis, as it focuses solely on the state of motion without external forces. The option suggesting they are unrelated is incorrect, as Newton's laws collectively describe motion and force interactions. Thus, the correct answer is option B.

This question appeared on the ETEA MDCAT 2016 paper, which you can sit online with every answer explained.

Written and checked by , contributorLast updated
Report an error

The more specific you are, the faster it gets fixed. A source beats an opinion.

Prefer email? [email protected]

About Newton's Laws of Motion

Newton’s laws explain inertia, the relation between net force and acceleration, and action-reaction pairs. Questions involve free-body diagrams, balanced and unbalanced forces, F = ma, force as the rate of change of momentum, and identifying genuine third-law pairs, which act on different bodies.

Practise Force and Motion

1,416 free Force and Motion MCQs from Physics, each with the correct answer and an explanation. Unlimited attempts, no account needed.

Discussion

Stuck on an option, or know a faster way to get there? Ask or explain it here.

No comments yet. Be the first to explain this one.

Exams that ask Physics questions like this

Physics is on 16 papers prepared for on TestUstad, and all of them draw the same bank, so this question is worth knowing for every one of them.

More Newton's Laws of Motion questions