What is the formula for Force?

Force is calculated using Newton's Second Law: F = m × a, where F is force in Newtons, m is mass in kilograms, and a is acceleration in meters per second squared.

A Newton (N) is the standard unit of force. One Newton is defined as the amount of force required to accelerate a mass of one kilogram at a rate of one meter per second squared.

Physics Calculator

Calculate Force, Mass, and Acceleration using Newton's Second Law.

Calculated Force

0.00 N

Equivalent Values

F = m × a

Understanding Newton's Second Law

What is Newton's Second Law?

Newton's Second Law of Motion states that the acceleration of an object is directly proportional to the net force acting on it and inversely proportional to its mass. This is commonly expressed as the formula F = ma.

How do I calculate Acceleration?

To find acceleration, rearrange the formula: a = F / m. You need to know the net force applied (in Newtons) and the mass of the object (in kg). The result will be in meters per second squared (m/s²).

Why do objects with different masses fall at the same rate?

While heavier objects have more gravity acting on them (greater F), they also have more inertia (greater m). In a vacuum, the ratio F/m (acceleration) remains constant (approx 9.8 m/s² on Earth).

What are the units of Force?

The SI unit of force is the Newton (N). 1 Newton is defined as the force needed to accelerate 1 kg of mass at 1 m/s². In imperial units, force is often measured in pound-force (lbf).