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Interactive: Waka forces - Level 4

As the person paddles the waka ama below there are four forces that act on the waka. These forces can be either a push or a pull.

  • As the paddler pulls on the paddle the waka is pushed forward. This is called the thrust force.
  • Acting against the thrust force is the drag force. This is the force of the air and water as it pushes against the moving waka.
  • The weight of the paddler pushes down into the seat of the waka. This is the weight force of the person.
  • The waka has to be strong enough to support the person. The structure of the waka provides the support force.

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