Newton’s Three Laws of Motion, Explained With Everyday Examples
Newton’s first, second and third laws of motion explained simply, with everyday examples, the F = ma formula, worked problems and common misconceptions.
Physics Formula Sheet
A printable physics formula sheet: motion, forces, energy, momentum, circular motion, waves, electricity and light, with symbols, units and worked guides.
Key takeaways
- Learn what each symbol means and its unit, not just the formula.
- Group formulas by topic and practise rearranging them.
- Check which formulas your exam board provides and which you must memorise.
On this page
This sheet collects the core formulas most physics courses use. Always check your own exam board’s formula sheet and notation.
Motion
| Formula | Meaning |
|---|---|
| v = d/t | Speed = distance ÷ time |
| a = (v − u)/t | Acceleration |
| v = u + at | Final velocity |
| s = ut + ½at² | Displacement |
| v² = u² + 2as | Velocity–displacement |
Guides: speed, velocity and acceleration, projectile motion, free fall.
Forces and momentum
| Formula | Meaning |
|---|---|
| F = ma | Newton’s second law |
| W = mg | Weight |
| F = μN | Friction |
| p = mv | Momentum |
| FΔt = Δp | Impulse |
| F = mv²/r | Centripetal force |
Guides: Newton’s laws, momentum, friction, centripetal force.
Energy and power
| Formula | Meaning |
|---|---|
| KE = ½mv² | Kinetic energy |
| PE = mgh | Gravitational potential energy |
| W = Fd | Work |
| P = W/t | Power |
Guides: kinetic vs potential energy, work, energy and power.
Electricity
| Formula | Meaning |
|---|---|
| V = IR | Ohm’s law |
| P = VI | Electrical power |
Guide: Ohm’s law calculator.
Waves and light
| Formula | Meaning |
|---|---|
| v = fλ | Wave speed |
| n₁ sin θ₁ = n₂ sin θ₂ | Snell’s law |
Guides: Snell’s law, Doppler effect, rainbows.
Revision tips
- Write each formula with units beside it.
- Practise rearranging for every variable.
- Do past-paper questions and check units in every answer.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need to memorise all these formulas?
Check your exam board; some provide formula sheets and others require memorisation.
What is the most important physics formula?
F = ma underpins much of mechanics, but each topic has its key equations.
How can I remember formulas?
Understand what they mean, use them in problems regularly and make your own summary sheet.
Sources
Every article is edited by a human and checked against our editorial policy. Spotted a mistake? Tell us.
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