Balanced & Unbalanced Forces

Front

What is a balanced force?

Back

A balanced force occurs when two forces acting on an object are equal in size but opposite in direction, resulting in no change in motion.

Front

What is an unbalanced force?

Back

An unbalanced force occurs when two forces acting on an object are not equal, causing the object to move in the direction of the stronger force.

Front

What force pulls objects towards the Earth?

Back

Gravity pulls objects towards the Earth.

Front

What happens to a ball when balanced forces act on it?

Back

The ball will not move or will continue to move at a constant speed.

Front

What happens to a ball when unbalanced forces act on it?

Back

The ball will accelerate in the direction of the stronger force.

Front

Can you give an example of balanced forces?

Back

A book resting on a table is an example of balanced forces; the force of gravity pulling it down is balanced by the table pushing it up.

Front

Can you give an example of unbalanced forces?

Back

A soccer ball being kicked is an example of unbalanced forces; the force of the kick is stronger than the force of gravity.

Front

What is the direction of the force of gravity?

Back

The direction of the force of gravity is always downward, towards the center of the Earth.

Front

What can change the direction of a moving object?

Back

An unbalanced force can change the direction of a moving object.

Front

What is the role of air resistance?

Back

Air resistance is a force that opposes the motion of an object moving through the air.