Types of Forces - JSS1 Basic science Lesson Note

Contact Force

Contact forces are exerted when two objects are physically touching each other. Examples include:

• Normal Force: The force exerted by a surface to support the weight of an object resting on it.
• Frictional Force: The force resisting the motion of an object sliding against another surface.
• Tension Force: The force transmitted through a string, rope, cable, or wire when it's pulled tight.

Non-Contact Force

Non-contact forces act on objects even when they are not in physical contact. Examples include:

• Gravitational Force: The force of attraction between two masses, like the Earth and objects near its surface.
• Magnetic Force: The force exerted between magnets or magnetic materials, attracting or repelling each other.

Each of these forces plays a crucial role in understanding and explaining the interactions between objects in the universe, from everyday experiences to complex celestial movements.