MCAT Physical

A comprehensive introduction to the fundamental concepts of physics as tested on the MCAT, including mechanics, thermodynamics, electricity, and more.

Kinematics and MotionForces and Newton's LawsWork, Energy, and PowerThermodynamics and Heat
Electricity and MagnetismFluids and PressureWaves, Sound, and LightAtomic and Nuclear Physics
Medical Imaging and DiagnosticsBiomechanics and Human MovementEnergy Use and Everyday Technology
Mastering MCAT Physics QuestionsTime Management and Guessing Smart
Kinematics and Motio...Forces and Newton's ...Work, Energy, and Po...Thermodynamics and H...Electricity and Magn...Fluids and PressureWaves, Sound, and Li...Atomic and Nuclear P...Medical Imaging and ...Biomechanics and Hum...Energy Use and Every...Mastering MCAT Physi...Time Management and ...
Basic Concepts

Forces and Newton's Laws

The Rules Behind Motion

Once you know how things move, it's time to ask why. Newton's Laws explain what causes motion—forces!

Newton's Three Laws

  1. Inertia: Objects keep doing what they're doing unless something (a force) changes that.
  2. F=ma: The net force on an object equals its mass times its acceleration.
  3. Action-Reaction: For every action, there's an equal and opposite reaction.

Types of Forces

  • Gravity pulls you down.
  • Friction slows you down.
  • Tension, normal force, and others support, stretch, or compress.

Everyday Physics

These laws explain why seatbelts are crucial (inertia!), why you push harder to move a heavier box (F=ma), and why jumping off a boat pushes the boat back.

Key Formula

\[F = ma\]

Examples

  • A skateboarder pushes off the ground and accelerates forward.

  • A book resting on a table experiences gravity and a normal force.

In a Nutshell

Forces cause changes in motion, explained by Newton's three laws.

Key Terms

Force
A push or pull that changes an object's motion.
Friction
A force that resists motion between two surfaces.
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Work, Energy, and Power
Forces and Newton's Laws - MCAT Physical Content | Practice Hub