Question

What must be the reaction force when someone hits a tree with an axe?

Answer 1

Answer: The correct option is that the axe handle applying a force to the person's hand.

Explanation:

This reaction force is due to Newton's third law of motion. This law states that for every action there is equal and opposite reaction to it. This implies that when a force is being exerted on a surface, the surface must exert a force that is equal and opposite in direction to the exerting force. This law represents a certain symmetry in nature that forces always occur in pairs, and one body cannot exert a force on another without experiencing a force itself.

A typical example of Newton's third law includes:

--> When you hit a tree with an axe: with your hand you exert a force on the tree with the intention to cut it down(action force). The same force you excreted on the tree would be felt in your hands (reaction force).

--> when air rushes out of a balloon: when air escapes for a balloon, the opposite reaction is that the balloon flies up.