What did Isaac Newton contribute to the field of science?

Isaac Newton significantly advanced the field of science through his formulation of the Laws of Motion, which laid the groundwork for classical mechanics. His three laws describe the relationship between the motion of an object and the forces acting upon it, providing a comprehensive framework for understanding how physical objects move under various conditions.

Newton's first law, also known as the law of inertia, states that an object at rest stays at rest, and an object in motion continues in motion at a constant velocity unless acted upon by a net external force. The second law establishes a direct relationship between force, mass, and acceleration, encapsulated in the famous equation ( F = ma ). Finally, the third law asserts that for every action, there is an equal and opposite reaction, highlighting the interaction between different bodies.

These principles not only propelled advancements in physics but also influenced various scientific disciplines, shaping our understanding of motion, gravity, and the fundamental laws governing the universe. This contribution is a cornerstone of modern physics, contrasting with the other provided options, which are associated with different scientists: relativity with Einstein, the periodic table with Mendeleev, and natural selection with Darwin. Each of these represents separate and distinct advancements in their respective fields.