Explore Action and Reaction Forces

Front

What is an action force?

Back

An action force is the initial force applied by an object that causes another object to react. For example, when a bowler rolls a bowling ball, the force of the ball hitting the pins is the action force.

Front

What is a reaction force?

Back

A reaction force is the force that occurs in response to an action force. It is equal in strength and opposite in direction. For example, when a swimmer pushes against the water, the water pushes back against the swimmer.

Front

According to Newton's Third Law, what happens when one object exerts a force on another?

Back

When one object exerts a force on another, the second object exerts an equal and opposite force back on the first object.

Front

What is the relationship between action and reaction forces?

Back

Action and reaction forces are equal in magnitude and opposite in direction. They occur simultaneously.

Front

If Katniss Everdeen applies 20 N of force on her bow, what force does the bow apply back on her?

Back

The bow applies 20 N of force back on Katniss, equal and opposite to the force she applied.

Front

What happens to an arrow when a bowstring is released?

Back

The arrow moves forward with the same force that was applied to it when the bowstring was pulled back.

Front

In the context of a swimmer, what is the action force when swimming?

Back

The action force is the swimmer pushing down and backward against the water.

Front

In the context of a swimmer, what is the reaction force when swimming?

Back

The reaction force is the water pushing up and forward against the swimmer's hand.

Front

What is an example of action and reaction forces in everyday life?

Back

When you jump off a small boat, you push down on the boat (action), and the boat pushes you up into the air (reaction).

Front

How do action and reaction forces relate to motion?

Back

Action and reaction forces are responsible for the motion of objects. They explain how forces interact to produce movement.