3. Repeat Step 2, this time with a second kid pushing back on the chair in the opposite direction so that it doesn't move. Ask: Are any forces acting on the chair? Why doesn't it move? (Although two forces are acting on the chair, they are balanced. Therefore, the chair doesn't move.)
4. Now repeat Step 1. Explain that even without someone pushing on it, forces are acting on the chair. The force of gravity is pulling down on the chair. But since the chair is not moving, there must be an equal force in the opposite direction–the floor is pushing back up.
Try the Forces Lab.
1. Place a chair in the middle of the floor. Ask: Are any forces acting on this chair? (Kids will probably say no.)
2. Invite a kid to gently push the chair a short distance across the floor. Ask: What force just acted on this chair? (a push that made it move; an unbalanced force)