Question

Describe the real-world examples of Newton's third law that were identified in “Applications of Newton's Laws.”

Answer 1

Newton's Third Law states that for every action, there is an equal and opposite reaction. This principle can be observed in various real-world examples. Here are a few applications:

1. **Walking**: When you walk, your foot pushes backward against the ground. In response, the ground exerts an equal and opposite force that propels you forward.

2. **Swimming**: A swimmer pushes the water backward with their hands and feet. The water responds by pushing the swimmer forward, allowing them to move across the surface.

3. **Rocket Propulsion**: Rockets operate by expelling gas molecules downwards (action). The reaction to this force is what propels the rocket upwards, enabling it to fly.

4. **Jumping**: When a person jumps, they push down on the ground with their legs (action). The ground pushes back with an equal and opposite force, lifting the person into the air (reaction).

5. **Recoil of a Gun**: When a bullet is fired from a gun, the bullet moves forward due to the explosive force (action), while the gun experiences an equal and opposite force that pushes it backward (reaction).

6. **Rowing a Boat**: When a rower pushes the water backward with an oar, the water pushes the boat forward in response, allowing it to move through the water.

These examples illustrate how Newton's Third Law is fundamental in understanding motion and forces in everyday life.