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External Forces

Definition

External forces are forces acting on an object that originate from outside the system being analyzed. These forces can cause changes in the motion or shape of the object.

Analogy

Imagine you're playing a video game and your character is being pushed by other players. These players represent external forces because they are exerting a force on your character from outside of your control, affecting its movement.

Related terms

Net Force: The vector sum of all the external forces acting on an object.

Frictional Force: A force that opposes the motion or attempted motion between two surfaces in contact.

Applied Force: A force that is applied to an object by another object or person.



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© 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.