The force that exists between objects in the absence of direct physical contact is called non-contact force.

Here are some examples of non-contact forces:

* Gravitational force: This is the force of attraction between any two objects with mass. It's what keeps us on Earth and what holds the planets in orbit around the Sun.

* Electromagnetic force: This force involves the interaction of electrically charged particles. It's responsible for things like magnetism, electricity, and light.

* Nuclear force: This force operates within the nucleus of an atom, holding protons and neutrons together. It's the strongest force in the universe.

These are the fundamental forces of nature that act without direct contact.