Question

What are the differences between action and reaction forces?

Answer 1

1. Action forces: Action forces are the forces that one object applies to another object. They always act in a specific direction and have a specific magnitude. For example, when you push a book across a table, you are applying an action force to the book.

Reaction forces: Reaction forces are the forces that the second object applies back on the first object in response to the action force. These forces are equal in magnitude and opposite in direction to the action force. Using the example above, as you push the book across the table, the table exerts an equal and opposite reaction force on the book.

2. Action forces cause motion: Action forces are responsible for causing objects to move or change direction. Without an action force, an object will remain at rest or continue to move at a constant velocity.

Reaction forces maintain equilibrium: Reaction forces help maintain equilibrium in a system. They prevent objects from moving through each other or falling through a surface. In the example of the book on a table, the reaction force from the table prevents the book from sinking into the table.

3. Newton's third law: The relationship between action and reaction forces is described by Newton's third law of motion, which states that for every action, there is an equal and opposite reaction. This means that action and reaction forces always occur in pairs and act on different objects.

In summary, action forces cause objects to move or change direction, while reaction forces are equal and opposite forces that result from the action force. Both forces are necessary for maintaining equilibrium and understanding the interactions between objects in a system.