Net Force Physics Example 1

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Example 1

easy
Three forces act on an object: 10 N10 \text{ N} right, 4 N4 \text{ N} left, and 3 N3 \text{ N} left. What is the net force?

Solution

  1. 1
    Define right as positive. Forces: +10 N+10 \text{ N}, −4 N-4 \text{ N}, −3 N-3 \text{ N}.
  2. 2
    Sum the forces: Fnet=10+(−4)+(−3)=3 NF_{\text{net}} = 10 + (-4) + (-3) = 3 \text{ N}
  3. 3
    The net force is 3 N3 \text{ N} to the right.

Answer

Fnet=3 N to the rightF_{\text{net}} = 3 \text{ N to the right}
Net force is the vector sum of all forces acting on an object. It determines the object's acceleration according to Newton's second law.

About Net Force

The single resultant force obtained by vector addition of all individual forces acting on an object, which alone determines the object's acceleration according to Newton's.

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More Net Force Examples

Example 2 medium

Two perpendicular forces act on an object: [formula] east and [formula] north. What is the magnitude

Example 3 medium

A [formula] object experiences forces of [formula] forward and [formula] backward. What is the net f

Example 4 easy

A [formula] sled accelerates east at [formula]. What is the net force on the sled?

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