Normal Force

DCS Code: 1J30.15 Last Updated: March 27, 2026
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Purpose

A flexible basswood strip bends visibly under load, showing that normal forces arise from elastic deformation of the supporting material. Heavier masses produce greater deflection, making the connection between deformation and restoring force concrete.

Basswood strip supported at each end on wooden blocks, bending visibly under a brass mass with hook placed at center
Figure 1: Basswood strip deflects under a brass mass placed at center, making the normal force visible through elastic deformation.
Equipment