Forces can change shape
Forces can change shape
To change an object's shape, you need at least two forces acting in opposite directions. If only one force acts on a free object, it simply accelerates instead of stretching or compressing.
Step-by-step lessons on OCR GCSE Physics 2.3 Forces in action, covering 2.3.1 Stretching, bending and compressing, 2.3.2 Elastic and plastic deformation, 2.3.3 Force and extension of a spring, 2.3.4 Linear and non-linear force-extension behaviour, 2.3.5 The spring constant, 2.3.6 Work done in stretching, 2.3.7 Gravitational fields, 2.3.8 Weight and gravitational field strength, 2.3.9 Acceleration in free fall, 2.3.10 Relating force, mass and gravitational field strength, 2.3.11 Forces causing rotation, 2.3.12 The moment of a force, 2.3.13 Levers and gears, 2.3.14 Pressure in fluids, and 2.3.15 Pressure, force and contact area. Each one builds up to exam-style questions. Paper 2 and Paper 4 include synoptic questions that draw on Topics P1–P4, so revisit earlier topics before final exams rather than treating each paper as self-contained.