Newton

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The newton (symbol: N) is a unit of force. It is named after Sir Isaac Newton in recognition of his work on classical mechanics.

Definition

A newton is the amount of force required to accelerate a body with a mass of one kilogram at a rate of one meter per second squared.

Examples

  • 1 N is the force of Earth's gravity on an apple with a mass of about 102 grams.
  • On Earth's surface, a mass of 1 kg exerts an average force of 9.8 newton on its support. The approximation, 1 kg corresponding to 10 N, is used in everyday use and in engineering except where strict accuracy is required.
  • The force of Earth's gravity on a human being weighing 70 kg is approximately 700 N.
  • The scalar product of force and distance (1 N * 1 m) is a basic unit of energy: 1 joule.
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