Forces Information

Question 1

What are the two categories of Forces?

Answer 1

The two categories of Forces are called Contact and Non-Contact Forces.

Question 2

What is a Contact Force?

Answer 2

Contact Forces require physical contact between two bodies.

Question 3

What is a Non-Contact Force?

Answer 3

Non-Contact Forces do not require physical contact between bodies.

Question 4

How do you know if Forces are balanced?

Answer 4

You know that Forces are balanced when the Resultant Force equals zero, there will be no acceleration, and the object will either stay at rest or continue at constant speed.

Question 5

How do you know if Forces are unbalanced?

Answer 5

You know that Forces are unbalanced when the Resultant Force is not zero and the object will accelerate, decelerate, or change shape.

Question 6

What is a Free Body Diagram?

Answer 6

A Free Body Diagram shows all the forces acting on one body. Forces begin from the centre of the body. Forces have arrowheads to show direction.