Question

What does Newton’s second law states?

(a) The rate of change of momentum is equal to the force applied

(b) For every reaction, there is an opposite reaction

(c) The body is tend to be rotated if the force is applied tangentially

(d) The body is rest until a force is applied

I have been asked this question during a job interview.

My doubt stems from Conditions for a Rigid-Body Equilibrium in chapter Equilibrium of a Rigid Body of Engineering Mechanics

Answer 1

The correct option is (a) The rate of change of momentum is equal to the force applied

Easiest explanation: The requirement of the second law is important in the equilibrium of the body. Specially the rigid bodies. The rigid body particles are if are in motion then this law helps in making the conditions for the equilibrium of the body. As when the body will leave its state of motion and come in rest, etc.