push
Definition
A push is a force that acts on an object to cause it to accelerate in the direction of the push. The force of a push is equal to the mass of the object multiplied by the acceleration of the object.
The force of a push can be expressed mathematically as:
F = ma
where:
- F is the force of the push (in Newtons)
- m is the mass of the object (in kilograms)
- a is the acceleration of the object (in meters per second squared)
The force of a push can be applied in a variety of ways, such as by a person, a machine, or even another object. The force of a push can be used to move objects, change their direction of motion, or stop them from moving.
How can the word be used?
The child pushed the ball down the hill.
Different forms of the word
Noun: an act of pushing something.
Verb: to move something by exerting force on it.
Adjective: relating to pushing.
Etymology
The word "push" comes from the Old English word "pūscan", which means "to thrust".
The first recorded use of the word "push" in English was in the 10th century.
Question
What can be pushed?
AQA Science Exam Question and Answer
Question:
Explain the concept of a push as a force in physics and provide an example of how a push can result in a change in motion.
Answer:
In physics, a "push" is a type of force that causes an object to move away from the source of the force. It is characterised by a transfer of energy from the object exerting the force to the object experiencing it. A push can occur when an object applies force on another object in a direction that is opposite to its own direction of motion.
For instance, consider a person pushing a car to start it. When the person exerts force on the car's rear end, the car begins to move forward. This is because the force applied by the person overcomes the car's inertia, initiating a change in its state of motion. The push in this scenario results in the car's acceleration, gradually increasing its speed.
Another example involves a soccer player kicking a ball. When the player's foot comes into contact with the ball, the force applied creates a push that propels the ball forward. The ball's initial rest is overcome by the push, causing it to move and, depending on the force applied, potentially accelerate as well.