GCSE Physics (AQA)

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Non-Contact Forces

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Forces Forces and their interactions

Non-Contact Forces

2:41 Introduction to Forces
Spec 4.5.1.2
Previous Effects of Forces Next Calculating Weight
  • A non-contact force is a force between two physically separated objects.
  • Example: A ball thrown in the air experiences a non-contact force pulling it downwards.
  • Gravity is a non-contact force that pulls objects with mass towards each other.
  • All objects with mass have a gravitational field around them.
  • Example: The sun and the earth have a non-contact gravitational force between them due to their large masses.
  • Gravity is the most common non-contact force and important for exams.
  • Electrostatic forces are non-contact forces between charged objects, which can be attractive or repulsive.
  • Charged objects have an electric field around them.
  • Example: Rubbing a balloon against hair transfers electrons, causing opposite charges and attraction.
  • Magnetic forces are non-contact forces caused by magnetic poles, with a magnetic field around them.
  • Example: A permanent magnet and a steel screw experience an attractive force due to the screw becoming temporarily magnetized.
  • Electrostatic and magnetic forces are less common in forces and mechanics exams but are important to know as examples of non-contact forces.

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