To solve the equation f = ma for m (mass), you need to isolate 'm' on one side of the equation. Here's how:
Solving for Mass (m)
The equation f = ma represents Newton's second law of motion, where:
- f = force
- m = mass
- a = acceleration
To find mass (m), divide both sides of the equation by acceleration (a):
f / a = (ma) / a
This simplifies to:
m = f / a
Therefore, mass is equal to force divided by acceleration.
Example
If a force of 10 Newtons (f = 10 N) is applied to an object resulting in an acceleration of 2 m/s² (a = 2 m/s²), then the mass of the object is:
m = 10 N / 2 m/s² = 5 kg
So, the mass of the object is 5 kilograms.
