The normal force is the force exerted by a surface to support the weight of an object resting on it. It acts perpendicular to the surface and prevents the object from falling through the surface.
Key Points to Remember
The normal force is always perpendicular to the surface.
It is a contact force, meaning it only exists when the object is in contact with the surface.
The magnitude of the normal force is equal to the weight of the object when the object is at rest or moving at a constant velocity in the vertical direction.
The normal force can vary based on the angle of the surface and other factors affecting the contact between the object and the surface.
History and Nature of Science: A student should understand the history and nature of science. A student who meets the content standard should:
Develop an understanding that historical perspectives of scientific explanations demonstrate that scientific knowledge changes over time, building on prior knowledge.
Develop an understanding that scientific knowledge is ongoing and subject to change as new evidence becomes available through experimental and/or observational confirmation(s).