Forces and their Effects

Forces and their Effects

Understanding Forces

• Forces are pushes or pulls caused by one object interacting with another.
• They have both size and direction, which can impact an object’s motion.
• Forces are measured in units known as Newtons (N).

Effect on Shape and Motion

• Forces can change the shape of an object. For example, stretching a spring or squashing a soda can.
• Forces also alter the state of motion of an object.

Different Types of Forces

• Gravitational Forces - This is the force of attraction between all masses. It’s the one that keeps us on the ground and governs the motion of the moons, planets, and stars.
• Electromagnetic Forces - These forces occur between charged particles. They are responsible for holding atoms and molecules together.
• Nuclear Forces - They keep the particles in an atom’s nucleus together.

Balanced and Unbalanced Forces

• Balanced Forces - If the forces acting on an object are equal from opposite directions, we say they are balanced. Balanced forces do not cause a change in motion.
• Unbalanced Forces - If the forces acting on an object are not equal, we say they are unbalanced. An unbalanced force causes a change in motion and can result in a change in speed, direction or both.

Effects of Multiple Forces

• Multiple forces acting on a body are usually added together to find their resultant force.
• The direction and size of the resultant force will determine the motion of the object.

Friction and Air Resistance

• Friction is a force that opposes motion, converting kinetic energy into heat.
• Air Resistance is a form of friction that acts against the direction of motion when an object moves through the air.

Forces in Tension and Compression

• When forces acting on an object try to stretch it, like in a tied rope, these forces create tension.
• When forces squeeze an object, they create compression, like the force that acts on pillars supporting a building.