what is a newton?
A newton is a unit of measurement for force. It is named after Sir Isaac Newton, the renowned physicist who formulated the laws of motion. To understand what a newton is, we need to understand force.
Force is a physical quantity that can cause an object to change its speed, direction of motion, or shape. When a force is applied to an object, it can make the object start moving, stop moving, or change its motion.
The magnitude of a force is measured in newtons (N). One newton is defined as the amount of force required to accelerate a one-kilogram mass by one meter per second squared (1 N = 1 kg·m/s²). So, if a force of one newton is applied to a one-kilogram object, it will accelerate at a rate of one meter per second squared.
To measure a force in newtons, you can use various tools such as a spring scale or a force sensor. These instruments typically have a calibrated scale that displays the force exerted on them in newtons. By applying a force to the instrument, you can read the corresponding value in newtons.