Balanced vs. Unbalanced Forces

Front

What is a force?

Back

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

Front

What are balanced forces?

Back

Balanced forces are forces 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 and opposite, causing a change in the motion of an object.

Front

What happens when forces are balanced?

Back

When forces are balanced, an object will remain at rest or continue to move at a constant speed in a straight line.

Front

What happens when forces are unbalanced?

Back

When forces are unbalanced, an object will accelerate, decelerate, or change direction.

Front

Give an example of balanced forces in everyday life.

Back

A book resting on a table is an example of balanced forces; 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

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

Front

What is friction?

Back

Friction is a force that opposes the motion of an object, acting between surfaces in contact.

Front

How does gravity affect forces?

Back

Gravity is a force that pulls objects toward each other, affecting their motion and the balance of forces.

Front

What is the net force?

Back

The net force is the overall force acting on an object when all individual forces are combined.