F = force (N)
Newton’s Second Law
Net force from mass and acceleration.
FORMULA REFERENCE
F = ma
Net force from mass and acceleration.
Variables and units
Keep each value in the units shown below before substituting it into the displayed relation. Convert first rather than mixing unit systems inside one calculation.
m = mass (kg)
a = acceleration (m/s²)
WORKED EXAMPLE
Calculate the stated condition, then interpret its boundary.
Known values
- m = 500 kg
- a = 1.5 m/s²
Substitution: F = 500 × 1.5
Calculated result: F = 750 N
Engineering interpretation: This is the net force. Friction, slope, drag and other external forces need their own free-body-diagram terms.
Conditions, limitations and review
- Constant mass
- Net force model
Use this formula to understand or screen the stated engineering condition. A final design requires the governing standard, actual loads, material condition, manufacturing features and professional engineering judgement.
Source: NIST Special Publication 811 and standard classical mechanics texts.