Contact Forces Quick Check

Contact Force

The general type of force in which an object must PHYSICALLY TOUCH another object in order to exert a force on the object.

Force

A push or pull that AFFECTS an object MOTION is a

newtons

Forces are labeled and measured in , which is the standard unit of measurement for forces.

Vectors have

both direction and magnitude

normal force

This contact force is the UPWARD acting force perpendicular to the surface with which an objects rests on. This force works against gravity and is responsible for keeping you from falling through your chair.

friction

This contact force works to slow down objects in motion. This force acts against an applied force and generates heat as two surfaces rub together.

drag (air resistance)

This contact force acts to slow down objects in a fluid (liquid or gas). It's similar to friction but is found in water or air.

spring force

This type of contact force is the force exerted in an elastic object when stretched or compressed. The elastic object will have a tendency to snap back when the force is released.

tension

This contact force works in both directions of a rope, string, wire or cable when pulled tight

Net Force

A combination of all forces on an object

Balanced forces make an object _

stay at rest

Unbalanced forces make an object

move

Applied Force

A force that is exerted on an object by a person or another object by pushing or pulling.