Which of the following best describes the relationship between Newton and mass in physics?

The relationship between Newton and mass in physics is best described by the principle that force is equal to mass times acceleration. This is encapsulated in Newton's second law of motion, which states that the acceleration of an object is directly proportional to the net force acting upon it and inversely proportional to its mass. In mathematical terms, this relationship is expressed as F = ma, where F is the force, m is the mass, and a is the acceleration.

This means that for a given mass, an increase in force will result in a proportional increase in acceleration. Conversely, for a constant force, if the mass increases, the acceleration decreases. This fundamental concept is key in understanding how objects move and respond to forces in the physical world. Therefore, the statement that force is equal to mass times acceleration accurately captures this essential relationship in physics, illustrating how mass influences the motion of an object under the action of a force.