pull
Definition
In physics, the pull is a force that acts on an object to cause it to move towards another object. It is the opposite of a push. The force of pull is caused by the interaction of the object's mass and gravity. The greater the mass of the objects, the greater the force of the pull.
The force of pull can be expressed mathematically as:
F = G * m1 * m2 / r^2
where:
- F is the force of pull
- G is the gravitational constant (6.674 * 10^-11 N m^2 / kg^2)
- m1 is the mass of the first object
- m2 is the mass of the second object
- r is the distance between the centres of the objects
The force of pull can be used to explain a variety of phenomena, such as why objects fall to the ground, why planets orbit the sun, and why tides rise and fall.
How can the word be used?
The horse pulled the cart.
Different forms of the word
Noun: an act of pulling something.
Verb: to move something by exerting force on it.
Adjective: relating to pulling.
Etymology
The word "pull" comes from the Old English word "pullian", which means "to pluck".
The first recorded use of the word "pull" in English was in the 10th century.
Question
What machines pull an object?
AQA Science Exam Question and Answer
Question:
Explain the concept of "pull" in the context of forces and motion. Provide examples of how pulling forces are applied in everyday situations and how they influence objects' motion and interactions.
Answer:
In the context of forces and motion, "pull" refers to the action of applying force to move an object towards oneself. Pulling is a type of force that causes an object to move along the direction of the applied force.
Examples of pulling forces are abundant in everyday life. When you open a door, you exert a pulling force on the door handle to move it towards you. When playing tug-of-war, each team exerts a pulling force on the rope to try and move the opposing team towards them. When rowing a boat, the oars create pulling forces against the water to propel the boat forward.
Pulling forces are crucial in various interactions. In engineering, cables and ropes are used to pull heavy objects, such as elevators in buildings or cranes lifting loads. In sports, athletes use pulling forces to propel themselves in activities like swimming or rowing.
Understanding pulling forces is fundamental to comprehending how objects move and interact. It demonstrates the role of force in changing an object's state of motion or equilibrium. Pulling forces are part of the complex interplay of forces that govern the dynamics of our everyday experiences, from opening a door to more intricate mechanical systems.