Question

The force on an object is given by the equation F = ma. In this equation, F is the force, m is the mass, and a is the acceleration. Which answer shows this equation solved for mass?

A. m = Fa

B. m = m/F

C. m = a/F

D. m = F/a

Answer 1

In order to determine mass, you would need to isolate m, in other words keep it alone (m =). However, it can be quite tricky at first glance to do this. Simply divide A by both sides to isolate the m.

F = Ma

M needs to be isolated.

Divide A by both sides to isolate M.

F/a = m

M = F/a

Answer:

D. m= F/a

Answer 2

I cannot eliminate B by any method but to say that you cannot manufacture an extra m in an equation. So B is wrong.

• The original equation is F = m * a
• if you want m by itself, you must divide both sides of the equation by a
• F/a = m*a/a Do the division
• F/a = m the "a"s cancel.
• So D turns out to be the answer.

C divides only once side by F. It is an unbalanced operation

A does some sort of mathematical slight of hand. Good for magicians, bad for physics students. I don't know how A is justified. It's just wrong.

D <<< Answer