What happens when two forces act in the opposite directions on an object?
Show answer & explanation
Correct answer: B
Explanation
The correct answer is option 2 i.e. The net force acting on the object is the difference between the two forces
When two forces act in opposite directions on an object, they result in a net force or resultant force, which is the vector sum of the two forces. The key points to consider are:
The magnitude of the Net Force: If the forces have equal magnitude, they cancel each other out, and the net force is zero, meaning the object will remain at rest (if initially at rest) or continue moving at a constant velocity (if initially moving). This situation is known as equilibrium.
Unbalanced Forces: If the forces are unequal in magnitude, the net force is the difference between the two forces, directed towards the larger force. This net force will cause the object to accelerate in the direction of the larger force.