contact force
Definition
A contact force is a force that is exerted between two objects that are in contact with each other.
Contact forces are caused by the interaction of the electrons in the two objects.
The strength of a contact force depends on the properties of the two objects and the way they are touching each other.
Contact forces can be pushing or pulling forces.
How can the word be used?
The contact force between the ball and the ground is what keeps the ball from falling through the ground.
Different forms of the word
Noun:
Contact force: A force that acts between two objects that are in contact with each other.
Adjective:
Contact force: Of or relating to a contact force.
Etymology
The word "contact force" comes from the Latin word "contactus", which means "touch". It is made up of the prefix "con-", which means "together", and the verb "tangere", which means "to touch".
Question
What is a contact force?
AQA Science Exam Question and Answer
Question:
What is a "contact force" in the context of physics, and can you provide an example of a contact force?
Answer:
In physics, a "contact force" is a type of force that occurs when two objects physically touch or come into direct contact with each other, resulting in a force being exerted between them.
An example of a contact force is the force of friction. When you slide a book across a table, the surfaces of the book and the table are in contact, and the force of friction opposes the motion of the book, making it harder to move. Friction is a contact force because it arises due to the interaction between the surfaces of the book and the table.
Other examples of contact forces include the normal force, which is the force exerted by a surface to support the weight of an object resting on it, and tension, which is the force transmitted through a string, rope, or cable when it is pulled tight.
In summary, a contact force is a force that arises when two objects physically touch or come into direct contact with each other. The force of friction, normal force, and tension are all examples of contact forces in everyday situations.