Question

What is the difference between push and pull?

Answer 1

Hint: If we speak in general terms, a push force is described as a force which when applied on a body generates a sense of push on the body. And, a pull force is described as a force which moves the body by applying a force by pulling it. Using this analogy, we shall proceed ahead.

Complete step-by-step solution:
These two kinds of force are very common in our day to day life. And we will see them with the help of some examples too but before we do that, let us understand the meaning of push and pull force with the help of following diagrams:
Push Force:
 

Pull Force:

In the above diagrams, we can clearly see what is the basic difference between the nature of push force and pull force. The examples of push and pull forces are as follows:
Opening a drawer: Now, when we open a drawer, we pull the knob of the drawer and open it up. Thus, it is a pull force only not a push force.
Hitting a ball: When we hit a ball with a bat or give it a kick, we are actually pushing the ball away from us by applying great force on it. Hence, hitting a ball falls under the push force.
Opening or shutting a door: While opening a door, we pull the door towards us and applying a pull force on the door. But, while shutting the door we apply a push to the door. Thus, this is an example of a push as well as a pull force.

Note: A simple way to analyze a push or a pull force is that, while pulling an object the direction of force (observed) is away from the object and towards us. And, while pushing an object the direction of force (observed) is towards the object and away from us.