Introduction to forces

A force can be described as ________ 

• a push or a pull

• an up or a down

• a left or a right

• movement

Answer explanation

A force is a push or a pull

Which of these is not a contact force? 

• Tension

• Gravitational force

• Reaction Force

• Friction

Answer explanation

Gravitational force doesn’t need objects to be touching. It is not contact force. 

Which one of the following statements is true?  

• Gravitational force only exists on Earth

• Gravitational force can attract and repel

• Gravitational force causes air resistance

• Gravitational force is always attractive

Answer explanation

Gravity causes an attraction between any two objects. 

What is a general name for a force that makes a vehicle move? 

• Thrust

• Friction

• Power

• Air resistance

Answer explanation

Thrust is the general name for a driving force. 

When a force can act without touching the object, what type of force is it? 

• Friction

• Contact

• Non-contact

• Air resistance

Answer explanation

Non-contact means ‘not touching’.

In which direction does air resistance always act? 

• Upwards

• Downwards

• Against the direction of movement

• Behind boat sails

Answer explanation

Whichever direction something is moving, air resistance is in the opposite direction.

In which direction does the reaction force always act?

• At right angles to the surface

• Upwards

• To the left

• In a circle