If two bodies named A and B exert force \(F_{AB}\) and \(F_{BA}\) on each other, the expression \(F_{AB} = -F_{BA}\) signifies which law?
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Newton's Third Law is the "action-reaction" law. If you push on a wall (action), the wall pushes back on you with an equal force in the opposite direction (reaction). This is why \(F_{AB} = -F_{BA}\).
Step 1: Analyze the equation. The equation \(F_{AB} = -F_{BA}\) states that the force exerted by body A on body B (\(F_{AB}\)) is equal in magnitude and opposite in direction to the force exerted by body B on body A (\(F_{BA}\)).
Step 2: Identify the corresponding law. This is the precise mathematical statement of Newton's Third Law of Motion. The law is often stated as: "For every action, there is an equal and opposite reaction."
Step 3: Evaluate other options. Bernoulli's principle relates to fluid dynamics. Boyle's law relates pressure and volume of a gas. Kepler's laws describe planetary motion. Conclusion: The expression signifies Newton's law (specifically, his Third Law).