The newton (symbol: N) is the SI derived unit of force, named after Sir Isaac Newton in recognition of his work on classical mechanics. Definition The newton is the unit of force derived in the SI system; it's equal to the amount of force required to give a mass of one kilogram an acceleration of one meter per second squared . Algebraically: » . Examples 1 N is the force of earth's gravity on an object with a mass of about 102 g ( kg) (such as a small apple). On Earth's surface, a mass… (More on Newton)