Physics Technology Update (4th Edition)

Published by Pearson
ISBN 10: 0-32190-308-0
ISBN 13: 978-0-32190-308-2

Chapter 5 - Newton's Laws of Motion - Conceptual Questions - Page 139: 15

Answer

Yes. (See below)

Work Step by Step

Imagine a rock sliding across the floor during a hurricane. The normal force and the weight of the rock equal out to give a zero y-component of force. There may be a force applied from the wind to slide the rock, but drag or friction can equal out with the force of the wind to leave a zero x-component of the force. Since force is equal to $F=ma$ and $F=0$, the acceleration must be zero. Since $a=\frac{\Delta v}{\Delta t}$ and $a=0$, there must be no change in velocity and therefore the object can slide at a constant speed.
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