What is the statement of Newton's third law of motion?

Newton's third law of motion states that for every action, there is an equal and opposite reaction. This principle emphasizes the interaction between two objects where if one object exerts a force on a second object, the second object exerts a force of equal magnitude but in the opposite direction back on the first object. This law explains a variety of phenomena, such as why a rocket moves upward when the engines fire downward or how a swimmer pushes water backward to propel themselves forward.

Understanding this law is crucial in physics as it lays the groundwork for analyzing interactions in various contexts, from everyday activities to complex mechanical systems. It reinforces the concept that forces always occur in pairs and highlights the reciprocal nature of interactions, which is fundamental to comprehending dynamics in both classical and modern physics.