(N/A) Forces in mechanics are broadly classified into two categories: field forces and contact forces.
$1$. Field Forces: These forces act at a distance without physical contact. Examples include gravitational force,electric force,and electromagnetic force.
$2$. Contact Forces: These forces arise due to physical contact between two objects. Examples include:
- Normal Force: When a body rests on a surface,the component of the contact force perpendicular to the surface is called the normal force $(N)$.
- Frictional Force: The component of the contact force parallel to the surface is called the frictional force $(f)$.
- Tension: The force transmitted through a string,rope,or cable when it is pulled by forces acting from opposite ends.
- Restoring Force (Spring Force): When a spring is subjected to an external force,a restoring force is developed that tries to regain its original shape. This force is proportional to the change in length $(x)$ and is given by the equation $F = -kx$. The negative sign indicates that the restoring force acts in the opposite direction to the displacement.