If two forces act on an object with equal magnitude but opposite directions, the net force is

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 forces act on an object with equal magnitude but opposite directions, the net force is

Explanation:
The main idea is that the net force is the vector sum of all forces acting on an object. When two forces have the same strength but point in opposite directions, they cancel each other out, giving a net force of zero. With no net force, there is no acceleration (F_net = m a), so the object's velocity doesn’t change. If it starts at rest, it stays at rest; if it’s already moving, it keeps moving at the same speed in the same direction. That’s why the situation results in zero net force.

The main idea is that the net force is the vector sum of all forces acting on an object. When two forces have the same strength but point in opposite directions, they cancel each other out, giving a net force of zero. With no net force, there is no acceleration (F_net = m a), so the object's velocity doesn’t change. If it starts at rest, it stays at rest; if it’s already moving, it keeps moving at the same speed in the same direction. That’s why the situation results in zero net force.

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