What is the force perpendicular to a surface called?

What is the force perpendicular to a surface called?

• A. Friction
• B. Gravity
• C. Normal force
• D. Tension

Answer: (C)

The force perpendicular to a surface is called the normal force. It is the push the surface exerts on an object, directed at right angles to that surface. This contact force prevents the object from moving into or through the surface. For a block on a horizontal table, the normal force points straight up and often balances the weight of the block, keeping it at rest or allowing vertical equilibrium. Friction, on the other hand, acts along the surface to oppose sliding. Gravity is the weight pulling downward toward Earth, not necessarily perpendicular to the surface unless the surface is horizontal. Tension is a pulling force along a string or rope.

The force perpendicular to a surface is called the normal force. It is the push the surface exerts on an object, directed at right angles to that surface. This contact force prevents the object from moving into or through the surface. For a block on a horizontal table, the normal force points straight up and often balances the weight of the block, keeping it at rest or allowing vertical equilibrium. Friction, on the other hand, acts along the surface to oppose sliding. Gravity is the weight pulling downward toward Earth, not necessarily perpendicular to the surface unless the surface is horizontal. Tension is a pulling force along a string or rope.