Balanced vs. Unbalanced Forces

Front

What are balanced forces?

Back

Balanced forces are two or more forces acting on an object that are equal in size and opposite in direction, resulting in no change in motion.

Front

What are unbalanced forces?

Back

Unbalanced forces are forces that are not equal in size or opposite in direction, causing a change in the motion of an object.

Front

What happens to an object when balanced forces act on it?

Back

When balanced forces act on an object, it remains at rest or continues to move at a constant speed in a straight line.

Front

What happens to an object when unbalanced forces act on it?

Back

When unbalanced forces act on an object, it accelerates, decelerates, or changes direction.

Front

Give an example of balanced forces in everyday life.

Back

An example of balanced forces is a book resting on a table; the weight of the book is balanced by the upward force of the table.

Front

Give an example of unbalanced forces in everyday life.

Back

An example of unbalanced forces is a soccer ball being kicked; the force of the kick is greater than the opposing forces, causing the ball to move.

Front

What is friction?

Back

Friction is a force that opposes the motion of an object, often causing it to slow down or stop.

Front

How does friction affect balanced and unbalanced forces?

Back

Friction can create unbalanced forces when it opposes the motion of an object, leading to acceleration or deceleration.

Front

What is the role of gravity in balanced and unbalanced forces?

Back

Gravity is a force that pulls objects toward the Earth; it can create unbalanced forces when it causes an object to fall.

Front

What is inertia?

Back

Inertia is the tendency of an object to resist changes in its state of motion; it is directly related to the object's mass.