Forces Flashcards
What is a force?
An action that can cause acceleration, deceleration, or change in shape
What unit is force measured in?
Newtons (N)
Define Weight
A force that points towards the source of the gravitational field
Define tension
A force that acts in the direction of a rope or similar object
Define air resistance
A force that acts opposite to the direction of motion in air
Define friction
A force that acts opposite to the direction of motion when two surfaces are moving and in contact.
Define a normal force
A force that acts perpendicular to a surface on an object pushing against the surface.
Define an applied force
Any push or pull that doesn’t fit into one of the other description of forces.
Define upthrust
The force that makes things float
What is a contact force?
a force that requires physical contact between two bodies.
What is a non-contact force?
a force that does not require physical contact between bodies.
What is a resultant force?
The sum of all forces acting on a body.
What would happen if an object’s forces were balanced?
The object either stay at rest or continue at constant speed
What would happen if an object’s forces were unbalanced?
The object will accelerate, decelerate, or change shape
What is the purpose of a free body diagram?
Shows all the forces acting on one body
