When determining how an object reacts to a force or forces, it is important to understand the different types of forces that may act on the object.

EO 1.6DEFINE the following:

a. Tensile force

b. Compressive force

c. Frictional force

EO 1.7EXPLAIN the difference between a static-friction force and a kinetic-friction force.

EO 1.8STATE two factors that affect the magnitude of the friction force.

EO 1.9EXPLAIN the difference between centripetal force and centrifugal force.

The previous section discussed the equilibrium of forces as they act on bodies. Recalling that a force is defined as a vector quantity that tends to produce an acceleration of a body in the direction of its application, it is apparent that the student must be acquainted with the various types of forces that exist in order to construct a correct free-body diagram and apply the appropriate equation. A force is applied either by direct mechanical contact or by remote action.