What are the different types of forces in physics?

[BryanSturg]

Can someone explain the main types of forces with simple examples? I'm trying to understand how they apply in real-life situations.

 

[MatthewRup]

In physics, forces describe interactions that change an object’s motion. The main types include:

1. Gravitational Force – attraction between masses (e.g., Earth pulling objects downward).
2. Normal Force – support force exerted by a surface.
3. Frictional Force – resistance to motion between surfaces.
4. Tension Force – transmitted through strings or cables.
5. Applied Force – direct push or pull from an external source.
6. Air Resistance (Drag) – friction from air opposing motion.
7. Spring Force – restoring force in stretched or compressed springs (Hooke’s Law).
8. Electromagnetic Forces – includes electric and magnetic interactions between charged particles.
9. Nuclear Forces – strong (binds atomic nuclei) and weak (responsible for radioactive decay).

 

[CandyBarff]

In physics, forces are classified as contact and non-contact forces. Contact forces include friction, tension, normal force, air resistance, and applied force. Non-contact forces act at a distance, such as gravitational, electromagnetic (electric and magnetic), and nuclear (strong and weak) forces. Each influences motion, energy, or structural stability.