How does a force in one part of a system relate to external forces, according to Newton's laws?

Study for the OSAT Physical Science Test. Practice with flashcards and multiple choice questions, each question has hints and explanations. Get ready for your exam!

According to Newton's laws, particularly the third law which states that for every action, there is an equal and opposite reaction, any force exerted in one part of a system must be countered by an equal and opposite force in another part of the system. This relationship emphasizes that when one body exerts a force on another, the second body exerts a force of equal magnitude in the opposite direction back on the first body.

This principle illustrates the interconnectedness of forces within a system and highlights that no force acts in isolation. For example, if a person pushes against a wall, the wall pushes back with an equal force in the opposite direction. This interaction confirms the idea that forces within a system are inherently balanced and that reactions occur across different parts of the system. This law of action-reaction is fundamental to understanding how forces function in terms of equilibrium and motion within a physical system.

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