Physics is the fundamental science that studies the nature and properties of matter and energy. Mechanics is a branch of physics that deals with the motion of objects and the forces that cause that motion. In this section, we will explore the basics of mechanics.

Key Concepts

  • Force: A force is a push or pull that can change the state of motion of an object.
  • Motion: The change in position of an object with respect to time.
  • Newton's Laws of Motion: Three fundamental laws that describe the relationship between the motion of an object and the forces acting on it.

Newton's Laws of Motion

  1. First Law: An object at rest will stay at rest, and an object in motion will stay in motion with the same speed and in the same direction unless acted upon by an unbalanced force.
  2. Second Law: The acceleration of an object is directly proportional to the net force acting on it and inversely proportional to its mass.
  3. Third Law: For every action, there is an equal and opposite reaction.

Examples

  • Gravity: The force of gravity pulls objects towards each other.
  • Friction: Friction is a force that opposes the relative motion of solid surfaces in contact.
  • Centripetal Force: A force that keeps an object moving in a circular path.

Further Reading

For more in-depth understanding of mechanics, check out our Advanced Mechanics section.

Newton's Laws