The force where things have to be touching to have an effect is called contact force.

Here's a breakdown:

* Contact Force: A force that arises when two objects are in direct contact with each other. The force is exerted by one object on the other due to their physical interaction.

Examples of contact forces:

* Normal Force: The force exerted by a surface on an object that is resting on it. This force acts perpendicular to the surface.

* Friction: The force that opposes motion between two surfaces in contact.

* Tension: The force exerted by a stretched rope, cable, or string.

* Applied Force: A force applied directly to an object by a person or another object.

* Air Resistance: The force that opposes the motion of an object through the air.

Contrast with Non-Contact Forces:

* Non-Contact Forces: Forces that can act on objects even when they are not physically touching. Examples include:

* Gravity: The force of attraction between any two objects with mass.

* Magnetic Force: The force exerted by magnets or magnetic fields.

* Electrostatic Force: The force exerted by electrically charged objects.

Let me know if you'd like more detail about any of these forces!