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Suppose we have two objects m(1) and m(2) in contact with each other,
and we are looking at the Newton's 3rd law contact forces. We might
label these as F(12) and F(21). Which is which? Is F(12) the force
exerted on m(1) by m(2), or is F(12) the force m(1) exerts on m(2).
Another example would be two charges exerting Coulomb's Law forces on
each other.
The way I see it, was taught, prefer, is that the subscript nearest the
primary symbol should describe the primary object the force pertains to.
Therefore, the notation F(12) should describe the force experienced by
m(1). In my way of thinking, F(12) is the force on m(1) because of or
caused by or exerted by m(2).