Introduction
 

Forces are responsible for changing the motion of objects and are one of the fundamental concepts in Physics. By understanding how forces interact, students can explain equilibrium, acceleration and changes in momentum, as well as solve problems involving vector addition and Newton's Laws of Motion.
 

In this topic, students learn how to represent and resolve forces, calculate resultant forces, analyse objects in equilibrium and apply Newton's Laws to a wide range of mechanical systems.
 

AQA A Level Physics Specification: 3.2.3.4 Forces
 

What You Need to Know
 

• Identify and represent forces using vector diagrams.

• Calculate resultant forces acting on an object.

• Resolve forces into perpendicular components.

• Understand the conditions required for equilibrium.

• Apply Newton's First, Second and Third Laws of Motion.

• Understand the relationship between force and the rate of change of momentum.

• Analyse forces acting on stationary and moving objects.

• Solve problems involving tension, weight, normal contact forces and friction.

• Apply vector methods to examination questions involving multiple forces.
   

Downloadable Topic Pack
 

Forces Topic Pack Exam Questions and Answers
 

Related Topics
 

• Scalars, Vectors and Resultant Forces

• Motion with Constant Acceleration Along a Straight Line

• Newton's Laws of Motion

• Moments and Torque

• Momentum