Balanced & Unbalanced Forces

Front

What is gravity?

Back

Gravity is a force that pulls objects toward each other. It is what makes things fall to the ground.

Front

What are balanced forces?

Back

Balanced forces are equal in size and opposite in direction. They do not cause a change in motion.

Front

What are unbalanced forces?

Back

Unbalanced forces are not equal and can cause an object to start moving, stop moving, or change direction.

Front

Give an example of balanced forces.

Back

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

Front

Give an example of unbalanced forces.

Back

A soccer ball being kicked is an example of unbalanced forces. The force of the kick is greater than the force of gravity.

Front

What happens when forces are balanced?

Back

When forces are balanced, the object does not move or continues to move at a constant speed.

Front

What happens when forces are unbalanced?

Back

When forces are unbalanced, the object will accelerate, meaning it will speed up, slow down, or change direction.

Front

What is the direction of a force?

Back

The direction of a force is the way in which the force is applied, such as pushing or pulling.

Front

How can you change the direction of a force?

Back

You can change the direction of a force by applying a different force in another direction, like steering a bike.

Front

What is an example of a situation with balanced forces?

Back

A person standing still on the ground is an example of balanced forces, as gravity and the ground's support are equal.