Applied Force

Applied force, abbreviated as \(F_a\), is a force that is applied to an object by another object or system.  It is a vector quantity, meaning it has both magnitude and direction.  An applied force can cause an object to accelerate or change its direction of motion.

Applied forces can come from many sources, such as physical contact between two objects, gravity, electric or magnetic fields, or other types of external forces.  For example, when a person pushes a box across the floor, the force they apply to the box is an applied force.  Similarly, the force of gravity pulling down on an object is also an applied force.

Applied forces can be measured using various instruments, such as force sensors or load cells, which convert the force into a measurable quantity, such as voltage or weight.  The measurement of applied forces is important in many areas of science and engineering, including mechanics, material science, and product design, as it allows for the prediction and control of the behavior of systems under different types and magnitudes of forces.