What is unbalanced force?

An unbalanced force occurs when the net force acting on an object is not equal to zero. This results in a change in the object's state of motion, meaning it will accelerate, decelerate, or change direction.

Here's a breakdown:

• Definition: An Unbalanced Force is one where the sum of all forces acting on an object is not zero.

• Effect on Motion: This force causes a change in the object's velocity, which is described by Newton's First Law of Motion (the law of inertia).

• Acceleration: Unbalanced forces produce Acceleration, which is the rate of change of velocity. The magnitude of the acceleration is directly proportional to the net force and inversely proportional to the object's mass (Newton's Second Law of Motion).

• Net Force: The Net Force is the vector sum of all forces acting on an object. If the net force is zero, the forces are balanced, and the object remains at rest or continues moving at a constant velocity.

• Examples:

  • A car accelerating from a stoplight experiences an unbalanced force from the engine's power.
  • A ball thrown into the air is affected by the unbalanced force of gravity, causing it to slow down and eventually fall back to earth.
  • A hockey puck sliding across the ice slows down due to the unbalanced force of friction.