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SingaporePhysics

Forces and Dynamics

4 dot points across 4 inquiry questions. Click any dot point for a focused answer with worked past exam questions where available.

How do we combine several forces into a single resultant, and what role does friction play?

Find the resultant of forces acting in a line, and describe the effects of friction on motion
A focused answer to the O-Level Physics outcome on resultant force and friction. Adding forces in a straight line, balanced versus unbalanced forces, friction as a contact force opposing motion, and its useful and wasteful effects.
7 min answer →

How do Newton's three laws connect force, mass, and the motion of an object?

State and apply Newton's three laws of motion, including the relationship F equals ma
A focused answer to the O-Level Physics outcome on Newton's laws. Inertia and the first law, the F equals ma relationship in the second law, action-reaction pairs in the third law, and worked calculations.
8 min answer →

How does a force make an object turn, and when is a balanced object in equilibrium?

Define the moment of a force, apply the principle of moments, and state the conditions for equilibrium
A focused answer to the O-Level Physics outcome on moments. The moment of a force as force times perpendicular distance, the principle of moments for a balanced beam, the conditions for equilibrium, and centre of gravity.
8 min answer →

What kinds of force act on everyday objects, and how do we represent them on a diagram?

Identify common forces such as weight, normal contact force, friction, and tension, and draw free-body diagrams
A focused answer to the O-Level Physics outcome on forces. Weight, normal contact force, friction, tension, and air resistance, the newton as the unit of force, and how to draw a clear free-body diagram.
7 min answer →