Math Problem Statement

Is it possible that the object pictured is moving, given the fact that the two forces acting on it are equal in size but opposite in direction? Explain.

Solution

The question in the image asks if it is possible for an object to be moving when two forces of equal size but opposite direction are acting on it.

Answer:

If the two forces acting on the object are equal in magnitude but opposite in direction, the net force on the object is zero. According to Newton's First Law of Motion, an object with no net force acting on it will maintain its current state of motion. This means:

  1. If the object is at rest, it will remain at rest (no motion).
  2. If the object is already moving, it will continue to move at a constant velocity in a straight line.

Therefore, it is possible that the object is moving with a constant velocity, but it cannot accelerate. The two forces being equal and opposite means there is no change in the object's motion (no acceleration).

Key Points:

  • Zero net force means no change in motion.
  • If the object was already moving before the forces balanced, it will keep moving at the same speed in the same direction.

Would you like more details or have any questions?

Related Questions:

  1. What is Newton's First Law of Motion, and how does it apply to objects with balanced forces?
  2. Can an object ever accelerate if the forces acting on it are equal and opposite?
  3. What would happen if one of the forces was slightly larger than the other in this scenario?
  4. How do you calculate the net force acting on an object?
  5. How does friction affect an object with equal and opposite forces acting on it?

Tip:

Always check the net force acting on an object to determine whether it will accelerate, stay at rest, or continue moving with constant velocity.