Question

The forces of action and reaction have_____magnitude but_____ direction.

• A. same, same
• B. same, opposite
• C. opposite, same
• D. opposite, opposite

Answer 1

The correct option is B

same, opposite

The explanation for the correct option

(B): same, opposite

1. The force of action and the force of reaction have the same magnitude but act in opposite directions, according to Newton's third law of motion.
2. The force of action and the force of reaction act on two distinct bodies.

The explanation for incorrect option(s)

(A): same, same

1. The magnitude of action and reaction forces is the same, but they are directed in opposite directions.

(C): opposite, same

1. We know that according to Newton's third law the forces of action and reaction have the same magnitude but in opposite directions. Hence it is incorrect.

(D): opposite, opposite

1. According to Newton's third law, we can't say the forces of action and reaction have opposite magnitude but opposite directions. It is incorrect

Hence, the forces of action and reaction have the same magnitude but opposite directions. hence option (b) is correct.