
1. Understanding Force
A force is a push or pull that acts on an object, causing it to move, stop, or change direction. It is a vector quantity, meaning it has both magnitude (strength) and direction.
Formula for Force:
F=m×aF = m times a
Where:
- FF = Force (measured in Newtons (N))
- mm = Mass of the object (in kilograms (kg))
- aa = Acceleration (in m/s²)
📌 Example:
If a 5 kg object is pushed with an acceleration of 2 m/s²:
F=5×2=10NF = 5 times 2 = 10N
So, the applied force is 10 Newtons.
✅ Key Point: A greater force or a lighter object results in faster acceleration.
2. Types of Forces
Forces are classified into two main types:
A. Contact Forces (Require Physical Contact)
1️⃣ Applied Force (Fₐ) – A direct push or pull on an object.
- Example: Pushing a shopping cart.
2️⃣ Friction Force (Fₓ) – A force that resists motion between two surfaces.
- Example: A car slowing down due to road friction.
3️⃣ Normal Force (Fₙ) – A support force exerted by a surface.
- Example: A book resting on a table.
4️⃣ Tension Force (T) – A force in ropes, strings, or cables.
- Example: Pulling a rope in tug-of-war.
5️⃣ Air Resistance – A force that opposes objects moving through air.
- Example: A parachute slowing down in the sky.