Force & Net Force

Front

What is force?

Back

A force is a push or pull that can cause an object to move, stop, or change direction.

Front

What is net force?

Back

Net force is the total force acting on an object after all the individual forces are combined.

Front

What happens when forces are balanced?

Back

When forces are balanced, the object remains at rest or continues to move at a constant speed in a straight line.

Front

What happens when forces are unbalanced?

Back

When forces are unbalanced, the object will accelerate in the direction of the net force.

Front

What is an example of a balanced force?

Back

A book resting on a table is an example of balanced forces; the force of gravity pulling it down is balanced by the normal force from the table pushing it up.

Front

What is an example of an unbalanced force?

Back

A soccer ball being kicked is an example of an unbalanced force; the kick applies a force that moves the ball.

Front

How do you determine the direction of net force?

Back

The direction of net force is determined by the direction of the greater force when forces are acting in opposite directions.

Front

What is friction?

Back

Friction is a force that opposes the motion of an object, acting in the opposite direction of the movement.

Front

What is the unit of force?

Back

The unit of force is the Newton (N).

Front

What is inertia?

Back

Inertia is the tendency of an object to resist changes in its state of motion.