Definition

Noun: - The force by which bodies repel one another: A physical interaction that causes objects to push away from each other. This is the opposite of an attractive force.

Usage

• This term is primarily used in the context of physics to describe a fundamental interaction, such as the repulsion between like magnetic poles (north-north or south-south) or between electric charges of the same sign (positive-positive or negative-negative).
• It describes a measurable push that increases as the objects get closer.

Examples

• Noun:
  • The repulsive force between the two positively charged protons is immense.
  • Magnets demonstrate a clear repulsive force when you try to push the same poles together.

Advanced Usage

• "To overcome a repulsive force": To apply enough energy to push objects together despite their natural tendency to repel each other.
  • Nuclear fusion requires overcoming the powerful repulsive force between atomic nuclei.

Variants and Related Words

• Repulsion (n): The phenomenon or act of repelling. Often used interchangeably with "repulsive force" in general contexts.
  • There was a visible repulsion between the two charged spheres.
• Repulsive (adj): Causing a feeling of intense distaste or disgust; in physics, having the capacity to repel.
  • (Physics) The interaction is repulsive at short distances.

Synonyms

• Repulsion: The act of driving back or the state of being repelled.
• Pushing force: A more general, non-technical term for a force that pushes objects apart.

Antonyms

• Attractive force: The force by which bodies attract one another, such as gravity or the force between opposite magnetic poles.
• Attraction: The action or power of drawing objects together.

Noun

1. the force by which bodies repel one another