What do we call a force that one object can exert on another without using physical contact?

A force that one object can exert on another without any physical contact is termed a noncontact force. This category includes forces such as gravitational force, magnetic force, and electrical force, all of which can influence objects without touching them. For instance, gravity can pull an object down towards the Earth from a distance, while magnets can attract certain metals without direct contact.

The term "noncontact force" distinctly describes these interactions that occur at a distance, highlighting their unique nature compared to forces that require direct touch, like applied force or friction. Understanding this concept is crucial in fields like physics, where distinguishing between contact and noncontact forces helps explain various phenomena in the universe.