Classical Mechanics — 5 Terms Defined

Newton's First Law Classical Mechanics N/A The principle that an object remains at rest or continues in uniform motion in a straight line unless acted upon by a net external force. ∑ F = 0 ⇒ v = constant

Newton's Second Law Classical Mechanics N The law stating that net force acting on a body equals the rate of change of its linear momentum, simplified to mass times acceleration for constant mass. F_net = m a

Newton's Third Law Classical Mechanics N The law stating that whenever two objects interact, they exert forces on each other that are equal in magnitude and opposite in direction. F_A_to_B = -F_B_to_A

Non-conservative Force Classical Mechanics N A force for which work done depends on the specific path taken, dissipating mechanical energy into heat, sound, or internal energy. W_non-cons = ΔME = ΔKE + ΔPE

Normal Force Classical Mechanics N The perpendicular contact force exerted by a surface on an object pressing against it. N = m g cos θ