By definition of the newton in S.I., one newton of force produces which acceleration on a body of specified mass?

Difficulty: Easy

Correct Answer: 1 m/s^2 while acting on a body of 1 kg mass

Explanation:


Introduction / Context:
The newton (N) is the S.I. unit of force. Its definition anchors many engineering calculations in statics and dynamics, ensuring that F = m * a has a clear numerical interpretation in base units. Selecting the correct pairing of mass and acceleration cements the meaning of 1 N in everyday calculations.


Given Data / Assumptions:

  • S.I. base units: kilogram (kg) for mass, metre (m) for length, second (s) for time.
  • Newton's second law: F = m * a.
  • 1 N corresponds to a particular acceleration produced on a 1 kg mass.


Concept / Approach:

From F = m * a, set F = 1 N and m = 1 kg to solve for a. This provides the definition of the newton in S.I. terms without resorting to gravitational units or centimetre–gram–second scales.


Step-by-Step Solution:

Start with F = m * a.Set F = 1 N and m = 1 kg.Compute a = F / m = 1 / 1 = 1 m/s^2.Therefore, 1 N produces 1 m/s^2 acceleration on a 1 kg mass.


Verification / Alternative check:

Dimensional analysis: N = kg*m/s^2, which rearranges to a = N/kg = m/s^2, confirming the numerical result for unit values.


Why Other Options Are Wrong:

  • 1 cm/s^2 cases: Use centimetre-based acceleration, not the S.I. metre per second squared; also mixes g and kg inconsistently.
  • 1 m/s^2 on 1 g mass: Uses gram, a C.G.S. mass unit, not S.I.
  • 10 m/s^2 on 1 kg: Would imply a 10 N force, not 1 N.


Common Pitfalls:

  • Switching to centimetres or grams mid-calculation, causing hidden 10× or 1000× errors.
  • Confusing weight (in N) with mass (in kg) when applying F = m * a.


Final Answer:

1 m/s^2 while acting on a body of 1 kg mass

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