Push or Pull Every move begins with a push or a pull.

What Is Force?

Force

A force is a push or a pull that can make an object start, stop, speed up, slow down, or change its direction.

Can you name one push and one pull you did today?

Force Around Us

force examples

Everyday Contact Forces

A force is a push or pull acting on an object.

Identify these common examples where you apply contact force:

Key Points:

  • Push a shopping cart
  • Pull a suitcase
  • Kick a football

Force Changes Motion

A push or pull (force) can start, speed up, slow down, or stop an object.

1

Ball at Rest

Without external force, the ball remains in its state of rest.

2

Push Applied

A push exerts force. The ball accelerates, changing from rest to motion.

3

After the Push

Once the force stops, friction slows the ball until it comes to rest again.

Pro Tip:

Greater force causes a larger and quicker change in an object’s motion.

Check Yourself

Question

Which action below is a pull?

A
Pushing a swing
B
Opening a drawer toward you
C
Kicking a ball
D
Hitting a nail with a hammer

Hint:

A pull brings the object closer to you.

Key Takeaways

Push or Pull

A force is any push or pull acting on an object.

Changes Motion

Forces can start, stop, speed up, slow down, or change the direction of motion.

Everyday Examples

Kicking a ball, opening a door, or pressing keys all demonstrate forces in daily life.