5 examples of the third law of motion

OP Authors 2025

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16-03-2025

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5 Everyday Examples of Newton's Third Law of Motion

Newton's Third Law of Motion, often stated as "for every action, there is an equal and opposite reaction," is a fundamental principle governing how objects interact. While it might seem simple, this law is at play in countless everyday situations. Let's explore five common examples:

1. Walking: This seemingly simple act relies heavily on Newton's Third Law. When you walk, you push backward on the ground with your feet (action). The ground, in turn, exerts an equal and opposite force forward on your feet (reaction), propelling you forward. Without this reaction force from the ground, you wouldn't be able to move. Try walking on ice – the reduced friction means the ground can't exert as strong a reaction force, making it difficult to move.

2. Swimming: Similar to walking, swimming involves pushing water backward (action). The water, in response, pushes you forward with an equal and opposite force (reaction), allowing you to propel yourself through the water. The more forcefully you push the water, the faster you'll swim. This is why different swimming strokes involve varying degrees of force applied to the water.

3. Rocket Launch: Rocket propulsion is a spectacular demonstration of Newton's Third Law. The rocket engines expel hot gases downward with immense force (action). The equal and opposite reaction is the upward thrust that propels the rocket into space. The expelled gases are the "action," and the rocket's ascent is the "reaction."

4. Recoil of a Gun: Firing a gun provides a clear example of action and reaction. When the gun fires, it expels a bullet forward with considerable force (action). The gun itself experiences an equal and opposite force backward, causing it to recoil (reaction). The heavier the bullet and the faster it travels, the more noticeable the recoil will be. This recoil is why it's crucial to maintain proper grip and posture when handling firearms.

5. Balloon Launch: Inflate a balloon and let go. The air rushes out of the opening (action), creating a force in one direction. The balloon itself moves in the opposite direction (reaction), propelled by the escaping air. The faster the air escapes, the quicker and farther the balloon will travel. This is a simple and fun experiment to demonstrate Newton's Third Law in action.

These five examples highlight the ubiquitous nature of Newton's Third Law. It's not just a theoretical concept; it's a fundamental principle shaping our everyday experiences and the workings of the physical world around us. From the simplest actions like walking to the complex mechanisms of rocket propulsion, the principle of equal and opposite reactions is constantly at play.