The invisible physics of push, pull, and fields
In short: Understand the fundamental mechanics governing how objects move or stay still. This video breaks down the distinction between physical contact and the mysterious forces that act across a distance.
Forces are defined as pushes or pulls acting on an object, measured in Newtons (N). Because force is a vector quantity, it is never defined by size alone; you must always consider both its magnitude and its direction.
The video categorizes forces into two types: contact forces, which require physical touch—such as the normal contact force—and non-contact forces. These latter forces are unique because they exert influence over a distance by creating fields of influence.
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Sources
- Summary by Intellect · source: GCSE Physics - Contact & Non-contact Forces (2027/28 exams)
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