The correct answer is:
C. an applied force.
Explanation:
1. An applied force is a force that is exerted on an object by a person or another object. It can push or pull the object in a particular direction.
2. Applied forces are commonly encountered in everyday situations. For example, when you push a door to open it, you are applying a force to the door.
3. This force is different from a reaction force, which is the force exerted by an object in response to the applied force.
Therefore, the force that pushes or pulls an object is known as an applied force.
