What is it
Children learn that unsupported objects fall due to gravity, that friction and air/water resistance act between surfaces, and that magnets attract or repel depending on which poles face each other, and attract some materials but not others.
Why it matters
This is a first hands-on encounter with forces as invisible pushes and pulls that affect motion — the exact concept formalised with equations at KS3 and GCSE physics.
Exam tip
Learn the rule 'same poles repel, opposite poles attract' cold — it is tested directly and very frequently, often with a simple diagram of two bar magnets.
Related topics
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