Measuring Force in Physics

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⚡ Part 1: Multiple Choice

Circle the best answer for each question.

1. What is a force?

A push or a pull on an object

The weight of an object in kilograms

The speed at which an object moves

The temperature of an object

2. What is the unit used to measure force?

Kilograms (kg)

Metres (m)

Newtons (N)

Litres (L)

3. Which of the following is an example of a qualitative description of force?

"The force is 15 N."

"The force is strong."

"The force is 0.5 N."

"The force measured 200 N on the scale."

4. Which tool is used to measure force quantitatively?

A ruler

A thermometer

A spring scale (newton meter)

A stopwatch

✏️ Part 2: Short Answer

Answer each question in full sentences where possible.

5. Explain the difference between a qualitative and a quantitative description of force. Give one example of each.

6. List two real-world examples where force is being applied. For each example, state whether the force is a push or a pull.

7. A spring scale shows a reading of 12 N when a student pulls a book across a table. Write a quantitative sentence describing this force.

8. Without using a measuring tool, how could you describe the force needed to lift a heavy school bag? Write a qualitative description.

🔢 Part 3: Simple Calculations

Show your working in the box provided.

9. A student measures the force needed to push three different objects. The results are: Box A = 5 N, Box B = 12 N, Box C = 8 N.

(a) Which object required the greatest force to push? _____________

(b) What is the total force needed to push all three objects? Show your working below.

10. A spring scale measures a force of 20 N when pulling a trolley. If the force is reduced by 7 N, what is the new force reading? Show your working.

11. Bonus: If gravity pulls a 3 kg book downward with approximately 10 N of force per kilogram, what is the total downward force on the book? Show your working.