Define Force and its Types | Mathematical expressions of force

 

A force can either be a push or a pull, and can act on an object either directly or indirectly

 

In physics, force is a physical quantity that describes the influence that one object has on another, causing a change in motion or direction. And is usually measured in units of Newton (N).

Forces can be described mathematically using equations such as Newton's laws of motion.

Types of Force

In physics, there are several types of forces that can act on objects. Here are some of the main types:

 

• Gravitational force

This force is the attractive force that exists between any two objects in the universe. It is a long-range force that gets weaker as the distance between the objects increases. The gravitational force is what keeps planets in orbit around the sun, and what keeps us anchored to the Earth.

Fg = G * (m1 * m2) / r^2

 

Where

Fg = gravitational force

G = gravitational constant (6.674 x 10^-11 N*m^2/kg^2)

m1 & m2 = masses of the two objects

 r = distance between their centers of mass

 

• Electromagnetic force

This force is a fundamental force that exists between electrically charged particles. It includes both electric and magnetic forces and is responsible for many of the interactions we experience in our daily lives, such as the attraction or repulsion between magnets.

Fe = k * (q1 * q2) / r^2

 

Where

Fe = electromagnetic force,

k = Coulomb’s constant (9 x 10^9 N*m^2/C^2)

q1 and q2 = charges of the two particles

r = distance between the particles

 

• Strong nuclear force

This force is responsible for holding together the protons and neutrons in the nucleus of an atom. It is a very strong force, but only acts over very short distances.

 

• Weak nuclear force

This force is responsible for certain types of radioactive decay, where a neutron can turn into a proton and release an electron.

 

• Frictional force

This force is what opposes the motion of an object when it comes into contact with another surface. It can be useful, such as in brakes that stop a moving car, or a hindrance, such as when trying to slide a heavy object across the floor.

Ff = μ * N

 

Where

Ff = frictional force

μ = coefficient of friction

N = normal force between the two objects

 

• Tension force

This force is the force transmitted through a string, rope, or cable when it is pulled tight by forces acting from opposite ends. It is often used in construction or engineering to hold objects in place.

T = F * cos (theta)

 

Where

T = tension force

F = force applied to the string

Theta = angle between the string and the force