Forces Flashcards
(16 cards)
What is a field of force?
A region of space in which a force acts on a body
This concept is fundamental in physics, illustrating how forces influence objects in a given space.
Define Gravitational Field.
A region of space in which a mass experiences gravitational force
Gravitational fields are crucial for understanding how masses attract each other.
What is the centre of gravity?
The single point at which the whole weight of the body may be considered to act
This point is essential for analyzing the stability and equilibrium of objects.
How can you find the Centre of Gravity (CoG)?
- Suspend a mass on a string from a pin to form a plumb line
- Suspend the object freely through a hole near the edge
- Draw a line along the vertical string on the cardboard
- Repeat steps 2 and 3
- The CoG is at the intersection of lines
This method is practical for determining the CoG of irregularly shaped objects.
What is an Electric Field?
A region of space in which a stationary electric charge experiences an electric force
Electric fields are fundamental in electrostatics and affect charged particles.
Define Magnetic Field.
A region of space in which a moving charge, current-carrying conductor or a magnetic material experiences a magnetic force
Magnetic fields are essential for understanding electromagnetism.
What is Kinetic Friction?
A force that opposes the relative motion between the surfaces in contact
Kinetic friction plays a significant role in motion and energy dissipation.
Define Static Friction.
A force that opposes impending relative motion of surfaces parallel to surfaces
Static friction is crucial in preventing motion until a certain threshold is reached.
What does Hooke’s Law state?
The extension or compression of a body is proportional to the applied forces, provided that the limit of proportionality is not exceeded
This law is fundamental in understanding elastic materials.
What is Translational Equilibrium?
A body is in translational equilibrium when the sum of the forces acting on the object in any direction is 0
This condition indicates that an object is either at rest or moving at a constant velocity.
Define Moment of Force about a point (torque).
The product of the force and the perpendicular distance of the line of action of the force to the pivot
Torque is essential for analyzing rotational motion.
What is a Couple in physics?
Consists of 2 forces acting on the same body, equal in magnitude but opposite in direction, and their lines of action do not coincide
Couples are important for creating rotational effects without translational motion.
How is Torque of a couple calculated?
The product of ONE of the forces and the perpendicular distance between the forces
This calculation helps determine the rotational effect produced by the couple.
What is Rotational Equilibrium?
A body is in rotational equilibrium when there is no resultant torque about any point
This condition ensures that an object remains in a steady state of rotation.
Define Pressure in physics.
Force acting perpendicularly per unit area of a surface
Pressure is a key concept in fluid mechanics and material science.
What is Upthrust?
The net upward force exerted by a fluid on a submerged or floating object, arising due to the difference in pressure between the upper and lower surface of the object
Upthrust is crucial in understanding buoyancy and stability in fluids.
