English National Curriculum - Science

Resultant forces

Mission Objectives

Explain the effects of balanced and unbalanced forces

Calculate the resultant force on an object

Draw a free body diagram showing the forces on an object (HT)

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Keywords

Words and meanings to learn

resultant force

the overall force acting on an object when all the individual forces are combined

free body diagram

a simplified diagram that shows all the forces acting on an object

unbalanced force

when the forces acting on an object are not equal, causing the object to change its speed or direction; this occurs when the resultant force is not zero

vector

a quantity that has both magnitude (size) and direction

balanced force

when all forces acting on an object are equal in size but opposite in direction, resulting in no change in the object’s motion

This lesson has been written by

Samantha Batch

Samantha is an accomplished science educator with over 15 years of leadership experience and a strong background in scientific analysis. She has a proven record of leading departments effectively, improving practice, and working collaboratively with stakeholders.

In her current work, Samantha embeds evidence-informed pedagogical principles such as retrieval practice, clear modelling, and effective sequencing to support high-quality curriculum design and professional development. She draws on assessment insight and common misconceptions to help teachers secure strong student understanding.

She is a former Head of Chemistry and Sixth Form Tutor at Ilkley Grammar School, with extensive Key Stage 4 and 5 experience, and an AQA examiner, giving her valuable insight into assessment standards and exam requirements.

In her spare time, Samantha enjoys playing the accordion with her local orchestra and has recently taken up cricket. 

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