Module 2: Forces and Newton's Laws

You have already investigated some concepts of acceleration. Why do objects accelerate? In this module, you will discover the effects forces play on the acceleration of masses. Forces such as gravity and friction will be employed in the application of Newton's First Law.

You'll take a look at how forces such as the tension in a rope can be measured, analyzed and predicted in various situations with pulleys. Next, you will look at situations where multiple forces act on a single object causing it to accelerate or not, based on the vector nature of the forces. Acceleration will be determined based on Newton's Second Law. Finally, you'll look at angled forces and use basic right-angle trigonometry to simplify complex situations.

 

Pre-Assessment:

Before you learn about forces and Newton's laws, check your knowledge in this pre-assessment. Click the player to get started.

 

 

 

 

Key Vocabulary:

To view the definitions for these key vocabulary terms, visit the course glossary.

Action-at-a-distance Force	Gravitational Force	Normal Force
Balanced Forces	Horizontal Component	Resultant
Coefficient of Friction	Inertia	Static Friction
Contact Force	Kinetic Friction	Tension
Force	Mass	Unbalanced Forces
Free Body Diagram (FBD)	Net Force	Vertical Component
Friction	Newton (unit)	Weight