Applying force with AddForce

Learn to apply force to an object with Rigidbody.AddForce.

Applying force with AddForce

To move physics-driven objects, Rigidbody.AddForce is used instead of directly modifying Transform position. This method applies a vector containing direction and magnitude to the object.

Rigidbody rb = GetComponent<Rigidbody>();
// Launch the object upwards
rb.AddForce(Vector3.up * 10f);

Objects propelled by AddForce react naturally with physics responses when colliding with other obstacles.

ForceMode varieties

ForceMode.Force is used for sustained thrust applied over time (like a rocket engine). ForceMode.Impulse is ideal for sudden hits and jumping effects.

// One-time jump impulse
rb.AddForce(Vector3.up * 5f, ForceMode.Impulse);

Continuous forces are usually called inside FixedUpdate, whereas instant impulses are fired just once in a single frame.

Exercise Print applied force

Assign "Impulse" to forceMode and 10 to magnitude. Print Applied Force: 10 | Mode: Impulse to the console.

Show example solution

using System;

class Program
{
    static void Main()
    {
        string forceMode = "Impulse";
        int magnitude = 10;
        Console.WriteLine("Applied Force: " + magnitude + " | Mode: " + forceMode);
    }
}

Test yourself

Which ForceMode type is appropriate for applying an instantaneous jump or explosion impulse?
- ForceMode.Impulse
- ForceMode.Acceleration
- ForceMode.VelocityChange
- ForceMode.Continuous
Show answer

ForceMode.Impulse — ForceMode.Impulse applies an instant force impulse in a single frame, factoring in the object's mass.

Specify Impulse force mode

rb.AddForce(Vector3.forward * 10f, ForceMode.____);

Show answer

rb.AddForce(Vector3.forward * 10f, ForceMode.Impulse);

Force concepts

AddForce

Applies physical force to Rigidbody
ForceMode.Impulse

Instant impulse, mass-dependent
ForceMode.Force

Force applied continuously over time
Vector3.up

Upward unit vector — (0,1,0)

Next lesson: Collision events

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