What Is a Force?
A force is a push or a pull. Forces make things move, stop, or change direction.
- 💨 Push — moves something away from you. Throwing a ball is a push!
- 🤔 Pull — brings something toward you. Opening a door is a pull!
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Try it right now!
Push this screen. Then pull your chair. You just made two forces!
Gravity — the Pulling Force
Gravity is a special force that pulls everything down toward the Earth.
That is why things fall when you drop them! Engineers always think about gravity — bridges and buildings must be strong enough to stand up against it.
Friction — the Slowing Force
Friction happens when two surfaces rub together. It slows things down.
- 🏭 Rough surfaces have lots of friction (like sandpaper).
- ☃ Smooth surfaces have less friction (like ice).
- 🏎 Car brakes use friction to stop the wheels!