Q
QuestionPhysics

What happens when an unstoppable force meets an immovable object?
25 days agoReport content

Answer

Full Solution Locked

Sign in to view the complete step-by-step solution and unlock all study resources.

Step 1
This question is a philosophical and physical paradox, often used to provoke thought and discussion.

It doesn't have a definitive answer, as it combines concepts from different realms of knowledge. In physics, an "unstoppable force" and an "immovable object" are not absolute or well-defined terms. In classical physics, applying Newton's first law, any force, no matter how strong, can be counteracted by an equal and opposite force. Therefore, an "unstoppable force" cannot exist in this context. Similarly, an "immovable object" would experience an equal force to any force applied to it, meaning it can still be moved by applying a force greater than or equal to the resisting force. In summary, the paradox of an unstoppable force meeting an immovable object doesn't have a single, definitive answer. Instead, it highlights the importance of understanding the limitations of physical concepts and avoiding oversimplifications or absolutes.

Final Answer

In classical physics, both concepts are relative and can be counteracted or overcome by applying appropriate forces and considering the specific conditions.

Need Help with Homework?

Stuck on a difficult problem? We've got you covered:

  • Post your question or upload an image
  • Get instant step-by-step solutions
  • Learn from our AI and community of students

Related Questions

Physics

21 days ago

Choose suitable examples of materials and their uses in order to provide an illustrated explanation of the properties of the following: conductivity, resistivity, insulators and conductors, ohmic and non-ohmic conductors, capacitors acting as filters in AC circuits and semi-conductors.

·
View Answer

Physics

21 days ago

"Which statement best describes Gay-Lussac’s Law? Pressure and temperature are directly proportional to one another. Temperature and volume are directly proportional to one another. Temperature and volume are inversely proportional to one another. Pressure and temperature are inversely proportional to one another."

·
View Answer

Physics

21 days ago

Determine the total resistance of each of the following parallel circuits. Then use Gizmo to check your answer. (You can calculate the total resistance from the current and voltage using Ohm’s law, or use the Ohmmeter to measure the resistance directly.) A parallel circuit with a 20-ohm resistor and a 10-ohm resistor. A parallel circuit with two 20-ohm resistors and a 10-ohm resistor. A parallel circuit with a 15-ohm light bulb and a 20-ohm resistor. A parallel circuit with two 100-ohm resistors and a 20-ohm resistor. A parallel circuit with a 10-ohm, 20-ohm, 100-ohm and 200-ohm resistor

·
View Answer

Physics

21 days ago

A NASA spacecraft measures the rate, R, at which atmospheric pressure on Mars decreases with altitude as R = 0.0406 kPa km-1. Convert R to mJ m-4.

·
View Answer

Physics

25 days ago

The speed limit on some interstate highways is roughly 125 km/h. A. What is this in meters per second? B. How many miles per hour is this?

·
View Answer

Physics

25 days ago

Which equation best describes the law of conservation of momentum? A. p=mv B. F=ma C. Δp=FΔt D. p initial​ =p final ​

·
View Answer