Question

Is the force on the object a push or pull force?

leaning against a wall

kicking a football

carrying a suitcase

pressing the button for an elevator

opening a sliding door

Answer 1

- Leaning against a wall — Push.
The wall exerts a contact (normal) force pushing the person away from the wall.

- Kicking a football — Push.
The foot applies a contact force that pushes the ball away.

- Carrying a suitcase — Pull (usually).
When you hold the handle you typically pull upward on the case to support it. (If you lift/support it from underneath with your palms, the contact force on the case is a push.)

- Pressing the elevator button — Push.
Your finger applies a contact force that pushes the button inward.

- Opening a sliding door — Usually Pull (often).
If you grab the handle and slide it toward you you are pulling; if you slide it away from you you are pushing — the specific action depends on how you operate that door.