Force Misconceptions

Concepts

Force is a push or pull

Misconceptions

An object a person is sitting or standing on doesn’t push back with equal force. The person is just resting on it. The reaction force doesn’t exist.
A force is put on a projectile when it is launched and the force gradually decreases causing the object to slow and eventually stop when the force is used up. A thrown rock, hit ball, bullet.
Friction is not a force.
Friction slows objects or doesn’t allow them to move. Friction can use up the force.
Friction is only present when something is rubbing against a moving object.
If something is moving there must be a greater force on it.
If you jump the force is greater than gravity. If an airplane is rising, then lift must be greater than gravity.
The faster an object is moving the greater the force on it.
Objects move in the direction of the strongest force.
When a car brakes, the passengers experience a sudden forward force.
Objects in motion can curve and make centrifugal force.
It is possible to start and stop without accelerating or decelerating.

 

Robert Sweetland's Notes ©