Force Pairs: Newton’s Third Law of Motion Explained

force pairs

equal in size but act in opposite direction on each object

Force pairs are two forces that are equal in magnitude, but opposite in direction, acting on two different objects that are in contact with each other. According to Newton’s third law of motion, for every action, there is an equal and opposite reaction. This means that when an object exerts a force on another object, the second object exerts an equal but opposite force back on the first object.

For example, when you push a book across a table, there are two force pairs involved. The force you exert on the book is one force, while the force the book exerts back on you is the second force. These two forces are equal in magnitude but opposite in direction.

Another example of force pairs is a person jumping off a diving board. The person exerts a force on the diving board, causing it to bend downwards. The diving board also exerts an equal and opposite force on the person, propelling them upwards.

In summary, force pairs are a fundamental aspect of Newton’s third law of motion and can be observed in many everyday situations where two objects are in contact with each other.

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