Definition: Force is a fundamental concept in physics that describes any interaction that can change the motion of an object.
Basic Description: It can be viewed simply as a push or pull on an object.
Contact Forces: Forces that occur through direct contact between objects.
Examples: Friction, tension, normal force, and applied force.
Non-contact Forces: Forces that act at a distance without physical contact.
Examples: Gravitational force, electromagnetic force, and nuclear force.
Units: The standard unit of force in the International System of Units (SI) is the Newton (N).
Understanding Newton's Second Law: Force can be calculated using the formula F = m a, where F is force, m is mass, and a is acceleration.
Forces cause objects to accelerate, decelerate, change direction, or change shape.
Understanding forces is crucial for studying motion in physics.