Normal contact force: GCSE Physics Definition
Written by: Leander Oates
Published
Read time
1 minutes
Contents
What is normal contact force?
In GCSE physics, the normal contact force is the support force exerted by a surface on an object that is resting on it. The normal contact force is sometimes called the normal force, the reaction force, or the normal reaction force, but they all mean the same thing. The word ‘normal’ is used in physics to describe something which is perpendicular to a surface. Therefore, the normal force always acts at a right angle to the surface.
The push force exerted on an object by a surface is called the reaction force
Normal contact force revision resources to ace your exams
You can strengthen your understanding of forces by using our revision notes tailored specifically for the AQA, Edexcel, OCR and WJEC exam boards.
You can practice force related questions and calculations with helpful guidance and examiner tips using our exam board specific GCSE Physics exam questions.
Sign up for articles sent directly to your inbox
Receive news, articles and guides directly from our team of experts.
Share this article
written revision resources that improve your