The branch of physics that deals with the motion of objects and the forces acting on them is called:

Step 1: Analyze the question The question asks for the branch of physics that studies two things: the motion of objects and the forces acting on them.

Step 2: Review each option

• A. Electromagnetism deals with electric and magnetic fields, charges, and their interactions. It is not mainly about the motion of everyday objects.
• B. Thermodynamics deals with heat, temperature, energy transfer, and work in systems.
• C. Mechanics deals with the motion of bodies and the forces that cause or change that motion. It includes kinematics (describing motion), dynamics (forces and motion), and statics (forces in equilibrium). Newton's laws of motion belong here.
• D. Quantum mechanics deals with the behaviour of matter and energy at atomic and subatomic scales. Despite the word "mechanics" in its name, it is not the general study of the motion of objects and forces.

Step 3: Identify the answer Motion plus forces points to Mechanics, which is option C.

Exam tip: Match keywords to branches:

• Motion and forces → Mechanics
• Heat and temperature → Thermodynamics
• Electric and magnetic effects → Electromagnetism
• Atoms and subatomic particles → Quantum mechanics

Watch out for "Quantum mechanics" as a distractor. The word "mechanics" in it can tempt you, but the question describes classical motion and forces, which is plain Mechanics.