If two equal and opposite forces act on an object, what is its acceleration?

Prepare for the Year 10 Force and Motion Test. Utilize flashcards and multiple-choice questions with clear hints and explanations to ensure success. Equip yourself for excellence on your exam!

Multiple Choice

If two equal and opposite forces act on an object, what is its acceleration?

Explanation:
When the net force on an object is zero, its acceleration is zero. Two equal and opposite forces cancel each other out, so F_net = 0. From F = m a, if F_net = 0 then a = 0, regardless of the mass. This means the object’s velocity stays the same: if it was at rest, it stays at rest; if it was moving, it continues moving at the same speed in the same direction. The mass doesn’t change this result, and there isn’t any larger force to drive motion when the forces balance.

When the net force on an object is zero, its acceleration is zero. Two equal and opposite forces cancel each other out, so F_net = 0. From F = m a, if F_net = 0 then a = 0, regardless of the mass. This means the object’s velocity stays the same: if it was at rest, it stays at rest; if it was moving, it continues moving at the same speed in the same direction. The mass doesn’t change this result, and there isn’t any larger force to drive motion when the forces balance.

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