Cambridge IGCSE Physics

1.5.1Effects of forces

Effects of forces in Cambridge IGCSE Physics: what the syllabus expects you to know, the learning objectives and how to practise.

Subtopic51 practice questions4 lessons

Learning objectives

What the syllabus expects you to be able to do.

1.5.1.1Know that forces can change the size and shape of an object.
1.5.1.2Sketch, plot and interpret load-extension graphs for an elastic solid and describe how the experiment is done.
1.5.1.3Find the resultant of two or more forces acting along one straight line.
1.5.1.4Know that an object stays at rest, or keeps moving in a straight line at constant speed, unless a resultant force acts on it.
1.5.1.5State that a resultant force can change an object's velocity by changing its speed or its direction.
1.5.1.6Describe friction between solid surfaces as a force that can oppose motion and cause heating.
1.5.1.7Know that friction (drag) acts on an object moving through a liquid.
1.5.1.8Know that friction (drag), such as air resistance, acts on an object moving through a gas.
1.5.1.9Supplement: define the spring constant as force per unit extension and use k = F/x.
1.5.1.10Supplement: define the limit of proportionality and identify it on a load-extension graph (the elastic limit is not required).
1.5.1.11Supplement: use F = ma, knowing that the force and the acceleration are in the same direction.
1.5.1.12Supplement: describe qualitatively circular motion caused by a force at right angles to the motion: how the force relates to speed, radius and mass.

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