Forces and Their Effects

What’s a force?
A force is an action that changes the state of an object. A force can make an object move. Forces can change an object’s shape as well.

There are different types of forces:

• Gravity: Gravity makes objects fall to the ground. It attracts objects.
• Electric force: It makes electrical circuits work. It can attract or repel.
• Magnetic force: magnets and certain metals have magnetic force. It can attract or repel.
• Friction: Friction is a contact force. It can slow or stop moving objects.

How can forces affect a moving object?

Forces can affect a moving object in different ways:
• Making an object move: when you hit a ball, it starts moving.
• Stop a moving object: if you catch a moving ball, you stop it.
• Change the direction of a moving object: when you bounce a ball, you change its direction.
• Increase the speed: if you push a swing, it moves faster.
• Reduce speed: friction can reduce speed of moving objects.