Balanced and Unbalanced Forces

Front

What are balanced forces?

Back

Balanced forces are forces that are equal in size but opposite in direction. They do not cause a change in the motion of an object.

Front

What are unbalanced forces?

Back

Unbalanced forces are forces that are not equal and opposite. They cause a change in the motion of an object.

Front

Give an example of balanced forces.

Back

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

Front

Give an example of unbalanced forces.

Back

An example of unbalanced forces is when a soccer player kicks a ball. The force of the kick is greater than the friction from the ground, causing the ball to move.

Front

What happens when balanced forces act on an object?

Back

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

Front

What happens when unbalanced forces act on an object?

Back

When unbalanced forces act on an object, the object accelerates, changes direction, or changes speed.

Front

What is the net force when forces are balanced?

Back

The net force when forces are balanced is zero.

Front

What is the net force when forces are unbalanced?

Back

The net force when forces are unbalanced is greater than zero.

Front

How can you tell if forces are balanced or unbalanced?

Back

You can tell if forces are balanced or unbalanced by observing the motion of the object. If it is at rest or moving at a constant speed, the forces are balanced. If it is speeding up, slowing down, or changing direction, the forces are unbalanced.

Front

What is friction?

Back

Friction is a force that opposes the motion of an object. It can cause unbalanced forces.