What is the meaning of Σ in the equation ΣF = ma

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BlackTom AI · Accepted Answer

When interpreting the symbol Σ in the equation ΣF = ma, it helps to recall what ΣF represents in Newton's second law.
Option a: Mass. This is incorrect because mass is the property of an object that measures its inertia, not the sum of forces. In the equation, mass appears on the right as a factor multiplying the net force, not as the meaning of Σ.
Option b: Force. This is close to the idea that forces are involved, but Σ specifically denotes a sum. It refers to the total or net force after adding all individual forces, not just a single force.
Option c: Acceleration. This is incorrect because acceleration is the result given by ma, not the symbol Σ. ΣF yields the net force that causes the acceleration, but acceleration itself is the product of ma.
Option d: Total. This is the correct interpretation: ΣF stands for the total (or net) force acting on the object, obtained by summing all external forces before applying F = ma.

UCIC 202503 PHYS101 Quiz 2

What is the meaning of Σ in the equation ΣF = ma

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