- Friction Force: The force that opposes the relative motion or tendency of such motion of two surfaces in contact. In the image, it's depicted by a child sledding, where friction between the sled and snow slows the motion.
- Spring Force: The force exerted by a compressed or stretched spring, which tries to return to its original shape. The clown popping out of a box illustrates this force from a compressed spring.
- Buoyant Force: The upward force exerted by a fluid on an object submerged in it. The hot air balloon rising is supported by the buoyant force of the surrounding air.
- Gravity Force: The attractive force between two masses; on Earth, it pulls objects toward the planet’s center. The falling apple demonstrates gravity pulling it downward.
- Drag Force: The resistance force caused by the motion of a body through a fluid (like air or water), acting opposite to the direction of motion. The airplane experiences drag as it moves through the air.
- Applied Force: A force applied to an object by a person or another object. The girl pushing a shopping cart applies a force to move it.
- Electric Force: The force between electrically charged particles, which can be attractive or repulsive. Rubbing a balloon on hair transfers charge, causing the balloon to attract small pieces of paper.
- Magnetic Force: The force exerted by magnets or magnetic fields on other magnets or magnetic materials. The magnet attracting paperclips shows magnetic force at work.
- Normal Force: The perpendicular force exerted by a surface on an object resting on it, counteracting gravity. The backpack on the table is supported by the normal force from the table surface.
Parent Tip: Review the logic above to help your child master the concept of types of forces worksheet.
