The Definition of Force
In science, a Force is generally defined as a push or a pull applied on an object.
- Push: Moving something away from you (e.g., kicking a football).
- Pull: Drawing something towards you (e.g., opening a drawer).
Tip
Interaction is Key: Forces do not exist in isolation. At least two objects must interact for a force to come into play. For example, when you push a table, your hand interacts with the table.
What Can a Force Do?
A force can change the state of an object in several ways:
- Move from Rest: Making a stationary ball move by kicking it.
- Change Speed:
- Pushing a moving swing harder makes it go faster.
- Pulling back on a dog’s leash slows it down.
- Change Direction: A batsman hitting a cricket ball changes its path.
- Change Shape: Squeezing a plastic bottle or stretching a rubber band.
Visualizing Push and Pull
The SI Unit of force is the Newton (N).