Normal Force
Definition
The normal force is the force exerted by a surface to support the weight of an object resting on it. It acts perpendicular to the surface.
Analogy
Imagine you are standing on a solid floor. The normal force is like the floor pushing back against your feet, preventing you from sinking into the ground.
Related terms
Weight: The weight of an object is the force exerted on it due to gravity.
Frictional Force: Frictional force is the force that opposes motion between two surfaces in contact.
Tension Force: Tension force is the pulling force transmitted through a string, rope, or cable when it's pulled tight.
"Normal Force" appears in:
Subjects (2)
Study guides (3)
Additional resources (2)
Practice Questions (7)
What is the magnitude of the normal force acting on the 10kg box?
A box is sitting on the floor of an elevator. The elevator is accelerating upwards. Which of the following is true about the magnitude of the normal force?
A box is sitting on the floor of an elevator. The elevator is accelerating downwards. Which of the following is true about the magnitude of the normal force?
A ferris wheel is rotating in a vertical circle. At the lowest point of the circle, the normal force exerted by the seat on the rider is _________ the gravitational force.
When an elevator accelerates downwards, what happens to the Normal Force acting on a person inside it?
If the elevator cable snaps and the elevator-person system falls freely, what happens to the Normal Force acting on the person?
When the elevator accelerates upwards, what is the relationship between the Normal Force and the true weight of a person inside it?
Are you a college student?
Study guides for the entire semester
200k practice questions
Glossary of 50k key terms - memorize important vocab
Resources
© 2024 Fiveable Inc. All rights reserved.
AP® and SAT® are trademarks registered by the College Board, which is not affiliated with, and does not endorse this website.