Some pupils confuse friction and normal reaction, as both arise from an interaction between an object the surface it is sitting on.

Forces and Motion

Misconception RESEARCH REVIEW

Diagnostic Resources

Identifying Forces - Q7

Resource that Address This

  • Friction

    This resource gives an accessible explanation of friction.

    View Resource

  • Friction between solid surfaces (11-16)

    Source - Practical physics/ Force and motion/ Friction, turning and other effects

    Part 3 explores the idea of normal force.

    View Resource

  • Episode 214: Work done by a force (16-19)

    Source - TAP/ Work, energy and power

    Activity 214-1  explores work done in raising a weight using a ramp.  The explanation included both friction and normal force.

    View Resource

References

The following studies have documented this misconception:

  • Clement, J. () Students' alternative conceptions in mechanics: a coherent system of preconceptions? in H. Helm, and J. D. Novak (Eds), Proceedings of the International Seminar: Misconceptions in Science and Mathematics. Cornell University, Ithaca, NY.

    310-315.

RelatedMisconceptions
RESEARCH REVIEW Forces and Motion

Many pupils cannot correctly identify the forces acting on an object that has been set in motion but is slowing down.

  • Number of Resources3
  • Number of References3
  • Number of Diagnostic Resources5
RESEARCH REVIEW Forces and Motion

Many pupils think that, if an object has a speed of zero (even instantaneously), it has no acceleration.

  • Number of Resources1
  • Number of References1
  • Number of Diagnostic Resources1
RESEARCH REVIEW Forces and Motion

Many younger pupils can use the word 'force' (to mean a push or a pull) and understand that a force is needed to get a stationary object moving.

  • Number of Resources1
  • Number of References3
  • Number of Diagnostic Resources1
ONLINE COMMUNITY FORUM

Have a Physics Teaching Question?

Want to ask it in a safe, friendly, knowledgeable environment? TalkPhysics is an online community for anyone involved in the teaching of pre-19 physics.

Visit TalkPhysics