A nail is struck by a hammer. Which type of contact force is primarily applied to the nail by the hammer?

• A. $\mathrm{Frictional force}$
• B. $\mathrm{Tension force}$
• C. $\mathrm{Applied force}$
• D. $\mathrm{Normal force}$

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Identify the types of contact forces listed: frictional force, tension force, applied force, and normal force.
2. Recall that frictional force acts parallel to the surfaces in contact and opposes relative motion between them.
3. Understand that tension force occurs in a string, rope, or cable when it is pulled tight by forces acting from opposite ends.
4. Recognize that normal force is the perpendicular contact force exerted by a surface to support the weight of an object resting on it.
5. Determine that when a hammer strikes a nail, the hammer exerts a direct push on the nail, which is an example of an applied force.