Types of Forces

Breaks down what each type of force is and what they do

Contact forces

Contact forces are forces that act on an object through physical interaction

Normal force

The normal force is the support force exerted upon an object that is in contact with a surface.

Friction

Friction is the force that opposes the motion of an object and acts parallel to the contact surface.

Air resistance

Air resistance is a type of frictional force that acts against an object moving through the air.

Applied force

An applied force is a force that is applied to an object by a person or another object.

Tension

Tension is the force that is transmitted through a string, rope, or wire when it is pulled tight.

Non-contact forces

Non-contact forces are forces that act on an object without physical contact.

Gravitational force

Gravitational force is the attraction between two masses, such as the earth and an object.

Magnetic force

Magnetic force is the attraction or repulsion that arises between electrically charged particles due to their motion.

Electrostatic force

Electrostatic force is the force between charged objects, which can be attractive or repulsive.