Certify Teacher Science Practice Exam

The correct response is based on Newton's second law of motion, which articulates that the force acting on an object is equal to the mass of that object multiplied by its acceleration. This foundational principle in physics can be summarized with the formula \( F = ma \), where \( F \) represents force, \( m \) denotes mass, and \( a \) signifies acceleration. This law explains how the motion of an object changes in response to applied forces; specifically, greater forces will lead to greater accelerations, provided the mass remains constant. The equation reveals how mass acts as a measure of inertia, which resists acceleration, while force is the mechanism that causes changes in an object's state of motion.

By understanding this principle, one can predict how an object will move in response to various forces, highlighting the dynamic relationship between these three crucial concepts in mechanics. This framework is essential for solving a wide range of problems in physics involving motion, allowing for a deeper comprehension of how forces influence the behavior of objects.