Force

Force is a push or pull on an object. If the net force on an object is not zero, then the object experiences an acceleration-a change in its velocity. Force is a vector and has both magnitude and direction. Two other important properties of force are the point of application of the force and the line of action of the force. The point of application of the force is simply the location on an object where the force is applied. The line of action of a force is a line through the point of application extending along the direction of the force. These properties of a force on indicated on a drawing of a figure skating pushing against the ice.

The magnitude of this force could be calculated by measuring the acceleration of the skater which is due to this force and multiplying by the skater's mass. In other words, by calculating the rate at which the skater gained speed from his or her push against the ice. Force is measured in newtons (SI units) or pounds (English units).

In this course, we will deal with these four types of forces: