Example of Applied Force: The Push of a Car Door
In the realm of physics, the concept of applied force is a fundamental principle that explains how objects move and interact with each other. An example of applied force can be observed in everyday situations, such as when someone pushes a car door open. This scenario illustrates the direct application of force to an object, resulting in motion.
When a person attempts to open a car door, they exert a force on the door handle. This force is transmitted through the door handle and the hinges, ultimately causing the door to move. The applied force in this case is the force exerted by the person’s hand on the door handle. The door, being a solid object, resists the force applied to it, but the force is strong enough to overcome the door’s resistance and initiate motion.
The applied force in this example can be broken down into several components. First, there is the force exerted by the person’s hand on the door handle, which is directed towards the door. This force is the primary force responsible for initiating the motion of the door. Second, there is the force exerted by the hinges, which resist the motion of the door. This force is directed away from the door and is a result of the hinges’ resistance to change in position.
The applied force in this scenario can be further analyzed using Newton’s second law of motion, which states that the acceleration of an object is directly proportional to the net force acting on it and inversely proportional to its mass. In this case, the net force acting on the door is the difference between the force exerted by the person’s hand and the force exerted by the hinges. The acceleration of the door is the rate at which its velocity changes as it moves from a closed position to an open position.
In conclusion, the example of a person pushing a car door open demonstrates the concept of applied force. The force exerted by the person’s hand on the door handle initiates the motion of the door, overcoming the resistance provided by the hinges. This example highlights the importance of understanding applied force in the study of physics and its application in everyday life.
