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.