Force, Unit of Force, Formula, Types, Effects, Line of Action
What is a force in NEET physics? Understand its types, SI units, effects, line of action, and impact on objects. If you are into NEET preparation, explore the various aspects of this topic and win the physics section in the NEET 2024 exam.
Praveen Kushwah29 Nov, 2023
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Force is an external cause that can alter the state of the body when applied. Due to force, a moving object comes to rest, or an object at rest starts moving.
Here in this post, we will explore the term "Force" used in Physics. This will definitely help to understand the basics of NEET Physics.What is Force?
Force is a fundamental concept that describes the interaction that can change the motion of an object. It is a vector quantity, having both magnitude and direction. Forces come into play when there is an interaction between two objects, and they influence the object's state of motion or shape. Example: Consider pushing a car to start its engine. In this scenario, your applied force initiates a change in the car's stationary state, setting it in motion. The force exerted by you overcomes the inertia of the car, showcasing how force acts as the driving energy behind alterations in an object's state of rest or motion. From gravitational pull to a simple push, force is the invisible hand shaping the dynamics of our physical world.| Common Terms and Description | |
|---|---|
| Terms | Description |
| Symbol | "F" |
| SI Unit | Newton (N) |
| Definition | Interaction causing a change in motion |
| Type | Vector Quantity |
| Magnitude and Direction | Yes |
| Newtons's Second Law | ( F = m*a ) |
| Common Forces | Gravitational, Electromagnetic, etc. |
| Measurement Device | Force Gauge |
| Effect on Motion | Acceleration, Deceleration, Rest |
| Examples | Pushing a car, Gravity on an object |
| Restoring Force | Elastic forces |
| Interaction Medium | Can act through a vacuum |
| Interaction Range | Can be short-range or long-range |
Formula of Force
The force acting on an object can be mathematically expressed using Newton's second law:F = m * a
Where, F - Represents force, measured in newtons (N). It signifies the interaction causing a change in the object's state of motion or shape. M - Stands for mass, measured in kilograms (kg). It quantifies the amount of matter in an object, determining its resistance to acceleration. a - Denotes acceleration, measured in meters per second squared m/s 2 . It signifies the rate at which an object's velocity changes, influenced by the applied force. In a nutshell, the force acting on an object is directly proportional to its mass and the rate at which its motion changes (acceleration).Unit of Force
The unit of force is a crucial measure that shows the force applied to an object, causing a change in its motion or shape. The unit of Force in centimeter gram second system of unit (CGS unit) - DyneSI Unit of Force
International System of Units (SI), is the metric system recognized as the universal measurement across the world. SI Unit of Force - (Newton) or (1kgx1m/s 2 ) or (10 5 Dyne), It is represented by the symbol (N)Effects of Force
Change in Motion: When you kick a stationary ball, the force applied causes a change in its state of rest, propelling it forward. Acceleration: Pushing the accelerator pedal in a car applies force, leading to acceleration and an increase in its speed. Deformation: Compressing a spring involves applying force, resulting in deformation, and upon release, the spring returns to its original state. Gravity: An apple falling from a tree experiences gravitational force, causing it to accelerate towards the Earth. Friction: Rubbing hands together generates force and creates friction, producing warmth through the conversion of kinetic energy. Tension: Pulling both ends of a rope applies tension force, crucial in activities like rock climbing or lifting objects. Torque and Rotation: Turning a wrench or spanner applies torque, inducing rotational motion, vital in mechanics and engineering. Pressure: Pushing a needle through fabric concentrates force, illustrating the concept of pressure applied over a small area.Types of Force
In our world, we can see the applications and types of force around us. Here are some common examples of forces with real-life examples.Gravitational Force
According to Sir Isaac Newton, gravitational force is the unseen force that holds all matter together in our universe. It is the power that maintains the orbits of celestial bodies like planets, moons, and stars. According to Newton's law of universal gravitation, the strength of this force is dependent on the masses of the objects and their distance from one another. This fundamental force controls commonplace phenomena like the weight we feel on Earth's surface or the fall of an apple, in addition to the magnificent ballet of cosmic bodies.Electromagnetic Force:
This force attracts charged particles through interactions between electricity and magnetism. Coulomb's law tells about the behavior of electrons, showcasing attraction or repulsion based on their nature. In addition, when charged particles are moving, magnetic forces are activated. The behavior of light, electricity, and even the connectivity of atoms in molecules are all governed by electromagnetic force, which is present everywhere and has a significant impact on both macroscopic and microscopic scales.Frictional Force
In everyday situations, frictional force is a common force that arises when two surfaces come into contact. It prevents objects from sliding or rolling in the direction that they are moving or have the potential to move. Friction is not only used to slow down motion; it is also used in vital functions like gripping, walking, and even machine efficiency.Tension Force
When an object is pulled or stretched through a flexible connector, such as a rope or cable, tension force is created. In scenarios where equilibrium is maintained, the tension force acts equally at both ends of the connector, transmitting the force along its length. Whether supporting a hanging object, securing a bridge, or propelling an elevator, tension force showcases the application of it everywhere.Spring Force
The restoring force applied by a compressed or stretched spring is known as spring force, and it is defined by Hooke's Law. The force is proportional to the displacement from the equilibrium position of the spring, indicating that springs have a natural tendency to return to their initial state. Springs are used in a plethora of devices, from complex mechanisms in timepieces to shock absorbers in automobiles, demonstrating the importance of spring force in engineering and daily technology.Buoyant Force
Buoyant force, was invented by Archimedes for surfaces in fluid dynamics, particularly in liquids. It's the upward force exerted on an object immersed in a fluid, counteracting the force of gravity. Objects float or sink based on the balance between buoyant force and gravitational force. This force not only defines the behavior of ships and submarines in water but also contributes to understanding the composition and dynamics of Earth's atmosphere.The Line of Action of Force
The Line of Action of a force is an imaginary line representing the path along which a force is applied. It is the straight line in the direction of the force vector. This concept is crucial in understanding how forces influence the motion and equilibrium of objects. For example, if you push a book horizontally on a table, the line of action of the force you apply is along the direction in which you push. In the case of gravitational force, the line of action is the straight line pointing vertically downward from the center of mass.How Can an Applied Force Change the Shape of an Object?
Force can alter the shape of an object through a process known as deformation. This transformation occurs when external forces are applied, causing the object's particles to reposition or rearrange. Several mechanisms explain how force induces shape changes:| How can an applied force change the shape of an object | ||
| Force | Application | Examples |
| Compressive Force | Application of force pushing inward | Squeezing a stress ball compresses its shape |
| Tensile Force | Application of force pulling outward | Stretching a rubber band elongates its shape |
| Shear Force | Application of force pulling outward | Sliding one layer of a deck of cards relative to another |
| Torsional Force | Application of twisting or rotational force | Twisting a wet towel to wring out water |
| Bending Force | Application of force causing curvature. | Bending a plastic ruler |
Force FAQs
Can force change the shape of an object?
Yes, force can cause deformation, altering the shape of an object. Different forces like compressive, tensile, and shear forces contribute to this transformation.
What is Newton's second law of motion?
Newton's second law states that the force acting on an object is equal to the mass of the object multiplied by its acceleration (F = ma)
Are all forces visible or tangible?
No, not all forces are directly visible. Forces like gravitational and electromagnetic forces can act at a distance without direct physical contact between objects.
What is a force in physics?
In physics, force is the influence that can change the motion of an object. It's a vector quantity with both magnitude and direction.
How is force measured?
Force is measured in newtons (N). The standard unit is named after Sir Isaac Newton, who formulated the laws of motion.
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