Balanced and Unbalanced Forces Flashcard

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 the forces acting on an object are not equal, causing the object to move in the direction of the greater force.

Front

What happens to an object when balanced forces act on it?

Back

The object remains at rest or continues to move at a constant speed in a straight line.

Front

What is net force?

Back

Net force is the sum of all forces acting on an object, taking into account their direction.

Front

If an object is not moving, what can we say about the forces acting on it?

Back

The forces acting on it are balanced.

Front

What is the effect of unbalanced forces on an object?

Back

Unbalanced forces cause an object to accelerate, change direction, or change its speed.

Front

Can balanced forces cause motion?

Back

No, balanced forces do not cause motion; they keep an object at rest or moving at a constant velocity.

Front

What is an example of balanced forces?

Back

A book resting on a table is an example of balanced forces; the weight of the book is balanced by the upward force of the table.

Front

What is an example of unbalanced forces?

Back

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

Front

How do you determine if forces are balanced or unbalanced?

Back

If the total net force is zero, the forces are balanced; if the net force is greater than zero, the forces are unbalanced.