Physics for Scientists and Engineers: A Strategic Approach with Modern Physics (4th Edition)

Published by Pearson
ISBN 10: 0133942651
ISBN 13: 978-0-13394-265-1

Chapter 5 - Force and Motion - Conceptual Questions - Page 127: 9

Answer

If an object is not moving and the acceleration is zero, then the net force on the object is zero. However, there could be forces acting on the object which cancel each other out, resulting in a net force of zero. Therefore, it would be incorrect to conclude that there are no forces acting on the object. For example, if an object is at rest on a table, then the net force on the object is zero. However, there are two forces acting on the object. The force of gravity is directed straight down and the normal force from the table is directed straight up.

Work Step by Step

If an object is not moving and the acceleration is zero, then the net force on the object is zero. However, there could be forces acting on the object which cancel each other out, resulting in a net force of zero. Therefore, it would be incorrect to conclude that there are no forces acting on the object. For example, if an object is at rest on a table, then the net force on the object is zero. However, there are two forces acting on the object. The force of gravity is directed straight down and the normal force from the table is directed straight up.
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