Force Calculator (F = ma)
Solve Newton's second law, F = ma, for force, mass, or acceleration. Enter any two values to find the third, in SI units (newtons, kg, m/s²).
Force (F = m × a)
20 N
Newton's second law: F = m × a. Force in newtons (N), mass in kilograms (kg), acceleration in m/s².
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Newton's second law?
Newton's second law states that the net force on an object equals its mass times its acceleration: F = m × a. Force is measured in newtons (N), mass in kilograms (kg), and acceleration in metres per second squared (m/s²).
How do I calculate force from mass and acceleration?
Multiply the mass by the acceleration: F = m × a. For example, a 10 kg object accelerating at 2 m/s² experiences a force of 10 × 2 = 20 newtons.
How do I find mass from force and acceleration?
Rearrange to m = F / a. Divide the force by the acceleration. For example, 50 N producing 5 m/s² means the mass is 50 / 5 = 10 kg.
How do I find acceleration from force and mass?
Rearrange to a = F / m. Divide the force by the mass. For example, 20 N on a 4 kg object gives 20 / 4 = 5 m/s².
What is a newton?
One newton (N) is the force needed to accelerate a 1 kg mass at 1 m/s². It equals 1 kg·m/s². For reference, the weight of a 1 kg object on Earth is about 9.81 N.