Net Forces Flashcard

Front

What is a net force?

Back

The net force is the overall force acting on an object when all the individual forces are combined. It determines the object's motion.

Front

What does it mean for forces to be balanced?

Back

Balanced forces occur when two forces acting on an object are equal in size but opposite in direction, resulting in no change in motion.

Front

What does it mean for forces to be unbalanced?

Back

Unbalanced forces occur when two forces acting on an object are not equal, causing the object to accelerate in the direction of the greater force.

Front

How do you calculate net force?

Back

Net force is calculated by adding all the forces acting on an object, taking into account their direction. For example, 60N to the right and 40N to the left results in a net force of 20N to the right.

Front

What is acceleration?

Back

Acceleration is the rate at which an object changes its velocity. It can be caused by an increase in speed, a decrease in speed, or a change in direction.

Front

What is the relationship between mass and acceleration?

Back

According to Newton's second law, the greater the mass of an object, the less acceleration it will have when the same amount of force is applied.

Front

What happens in a tug-of-war when one group pulls harder?

Back

The group that pulls with a greater force will win, causing the rope (and any ribbon in the middle) to move in their direction.

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. An object at rest stays at rest, and an object in motion stays in motion unless acted upon by an external force.

Front

What is the effect of friction on motion?

Back

Friction is a force that opposes motion between two surfaces in contact. It can slow down or stop moving objects.