Question

Which statements correctly describe forces? Check all that apply.

Answer 1

1. Forces have the ability to change an object’s state of motion.

TRUE

As per Newton's first law when unbalanced force act on an object then the state of motion of the object will change.

2. Forces are vectors.  

TRUE

Since forces must have direction along with their magnitude so it is vector

3. Forces are measured in joules.

FALSE

Force is measured in Newton in SI unit or we can use kg m/s/s as its unit while Joule is the SI unit to measure energy

4. Forces are measured in newtons.

TRUE

Force is measured in Newton in SI unit system for the honor of Sir Issac Newton

5. Forces can have a positive or negative value to indicate direction.

TRUE

Since force is a vector quantity so it represents positive or negative for the presentation of direction.

Answer 2

1. Forces have the ability to change an object's state of motion

Yes, this is obviously TRUE. Right now I am exerting a force on my keyboard which changes the keys state of motion. So this statement is true, forces do have the ability to change an objects state of motion.

2. Forces are vectors

Yes, this statement is TRUE. Forces are vector quantities. A vector quantity is a quantity that contains both a magnitude and direction. In order to describe a force you need to measure/say its magnitude (size) and direction.

3. Forces are measured in Joules

Depends, are we talking electricity or physical force? In this case it is physical force because the question does not include or mention electrical forces. Force is usually measured in Newtons (N) (kg*m/s^2). Therefore this statement is FALSE.

4. Forces are measured in Newtons

Well well well. Where have we seen this before? This statement is TRUE. (since the question isn't describing an electrical force).

5. Forces can have a positive or negative value to indicate direction

This is TRUE, and I have failed countless exams because of it. Just remember, it isn't a negative VALUE necessarily! It is negative because it is indicating DIRECTION. Make sure to read directions on the test to see whether you must include this.

Physics is fun!