Applied Force

Definition

Applied force refers to the external force that is exerted on an object, causing it to accelerate, change direction, or experience a change in its state of motion. It is a fundamental concept in the study of Newtonian mechanics and is crucial for understanding how objects interact and move under the influence of external forces.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Applied force is the cause of an object's acceleration, as described by Newton's second law: $F_{net} = ma$, where $F_{net}$ is the net force acting on the object, $m$ is the object's mass, and $a$ is its acceleration.
2. The direction of the applied force determines the direction of the object's acceleration, as the acceleration vector points in the same direction as the net force vector.
3. The magnitude of the applied force determines the magnitude of the object's acceleration, with a larger force resulting in a greater acceleration, assuming the object's mass remains constant.
4. Applied forces can be classified as either contact forces or field forces, depending on whether the force requires direct physical interaction between the objects or can act at a distance.
5. Understanding the concept of applied force is crucial for solving problems involving the motion of objects, such as in the context of 6.1 Solving Problems with Newton's Laws.

Review Questions

• Explain how the magnitude and direction of the applied force affect the motion of an object.
  • The magnitude of the applied force determines the magnitude of the object's acceleration, with a larger force resulting in a greater acceleration, assuming the object's mass remains constant. The direction of the applied force determines the direction of the object's acceleration, as the acceleration vector points in the same direction as the net force vector. This relationship is described by Newton's second law of motion: $F_{net} = ma$, where $F_{net}$ is the net force acting on the object, $m$ is the object's mass, and $a$ is its acceleration.
• Distinguish between contact forces and field forces, and provide examples of each in the context of solving problems with Newton's laws.
  • Contact forces are forces that arise from direct physical interaction between two objects, such as friction, normal force, or tension. Field forces, on the other hand, are forces that act on an object without direct physical contact, such as gravitational, electric, or magnetic forces. In the context of solving problems with Newton's laws, contact forces might be involved in problems involving objects sliding on surfaces or connected by strings, while field forces would be relevant in problems involving objects under the influence of gravity or other non-contact forces.
• Analyze how the concept of applied force is crucial for understanding the motion of objects in the context of 6.1 Solving Problems with Newton's Laws.
  • The concept of applied force is central to 6.1 Solving Problems with Newton's Laws because it is the driving factor that determines the acceleration of an object. By understanding how the magnitude and direction of the applied force affect the object's motion, you can apply Newton's laws to solve a variety of problems involving the dynamics of objects. This includes analyzing the forces acting on an object, determining the net force, and using Newton's second law to calculate the object's acceleration. Mastering the concept of applied force is essential for successfully solving problems in the context of 6.1 Solving Problems with Newton's Laws.

Related terms

Net Force: The vector sum of all the forces acting on an object, which determines the object's acceleration according to Newton's second law.

Contact Force: A force that arises from direct physical contact between two objects, such as friction, normal force, or tension.

Field Force: A force that acts on an object without direct physical contact, such as gravitational, electric, or magnetic forces.