The push-pull force calculator serves a critical purpose – it calculates the total force necessary for pushing or pulling an object. This force is influenced by the applied force, the angle at which the force is exerted (θ), and the opposing friction. The formula at the heart of this calculator is as follows:
Formula of Push Pull Force Calculator
Force = Applied Force × cos(θ) – Friction
Let’s break down each component:
- Force: This represents the total force required for the task at hand, whether it’s pushing a heavy crate or pulling an object.
- Applied Force: It signifies the force you are applying to the object. If you’re pushing, this is the force you’re exerting in the desired direction.
- θ (Theta): Theta denotes the angle at which the force is applied, measured in radians. For straightforward pushes or pulls in a straight line, θ is typically 0 degrees, and the cosine of 0 degrees is 1, simplifying the formula.
- Friction: Friction represents the opposing force that hinders the motion of the object. It’s a crucial factor to consider when calculating the overall force required.
Table of General Terms
| Term | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Applied Force (N) | Force applied by you on the object (in Newtons). |
| θ (Theta) | Angle at which you’re exerting force (in radians). |
| Friction (N) | The opposing force hindering motion (in Newtons). |
| Total Force (N) | The resulting force needed for pushing or pulling. |
Example of Push Pull Force Calculator
Let’s put the theory into practice with an example. Imagine you’re pushing a heavy box with an applied force of 50 Newtons, and there’s 10 Newtons of friction. Since you’re pushing in a straight line (θ = 0), the formula simplifies:
Force = 50 N × cos(0) – 10 N = 50 N – 10 N = 40 N
In this scenario, you’d need a total force of 40 Newtons to move the box.
Most Common FAQs
The calculator typically uses Newtons (N) for force, radians for the angle (θ), and provides results in Newtons (N).
If your angle is in degrees, you may need to convert it to radians using the formula θ (radians) = θ (degrees) × (π / 180).
Friction accounts for the resistance to motion, which is essential to determine the force required accurately.