Key Idea.
Section 1
Balanced Forces Create Stability
When two forces acting on an object are equal in strength but opposite in direction, they are called balanced forces. Imagine a tug-of-war where both teams pull with the exact same strength; the rope does not move.
When forces are balanced, they cancel each other out. This creates a state of stability. An object that is still will remain still because there is no extra force to make it move.
Section 2
Floating with Balanced Forces
How can a train float? It is a result of balanced forces. Gravity is pulling the train down toward the tracks. However, powerful magnets in the track push the train up with a magnetic force.
If the upward push from the magnets is exactly equal to the downward pull of gravity, the forces are balanced. The train does not fall, and it does not shoot up into the sky. It stays stable, hovering in the air.
Expand to review the lesson summary and core properties.
Section 1
Balanced Forces Create Stability
When two forces acting on an object are equal in strength but opposite in direction, they are called balanced forces. Imagine a tug-of-war where both teams pull with the exact same strength; the rope does not move.
When forces are balanced, they cancel each other out. This creates a state of stability. An object that is still will remain still because there is no extra force to make it move.
Section 2
Floating with Balanced Forces
How can a train float? It is a result of balanced forces. Gravity is pulling the train down toward the tracks. However, powerful magnets in the track push the train up with a magnetic force.
If the upward push from the magnets is exactly equal to the downward pull of gravity, the forces are balanced. The train does not fall, and it does not shoot up into the sky. It stays stable, hovering in the air.