Definition

Noun: - Newton's third law: A fundamental principle of classical mechanics stating that for every action (force) there is an equal and opposite reaction. This means that when one object exerts a force on a second object, the second object simultaneously exerts a force equal in magnitude and opposite in direction on the first object.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • The rocket's propulsion is a classic demonstration of Newton's third law.
  • When you push against a wall, the wall pushes back on you with equal force, illustrating Newton's third law.

Advanced Usage

• "To obey Newton's third law": To behave in accordance with the principle.
  • All interaction forces between two objects must obey Newton's third law.
• "A consequence of Newton's third law": A result or effect stemming from the law.
  • The conservation of momentum is a direct consequence of Newton's third law.

Variants and Related Words

• Third law of motion: A synonymous phrase for Newton's third law.
  • The third law of motion is essential for understanding forces in pairs.
• Action-reaction pair: The specific pair of forces described by the law.
  • Identifying the action-reaction pair is a key step in applying the law correctly.

Synonyms

• Law of action and reaction: An alternative name for the same physical principle.

Related Phrases

• "Equal and opposite": The core descriptive phrase from the law's common formulation.
  • The forces are always equal and opposite.

Noun

1. action and reaction are equal and opposite