Question 373 of 949
A 10 kg block is resting on a flat surface and is subject to two horizontal forces: a 30 N force to the right and a 20 N force to the left. What is the net force acting on the block?
- 50 N to the right
- 10 N to the right
- 10 N to the left
- 0 N
Correct Answer:
B
Explanation
### Correct Option: B. 10 N to the right
### Detailed Explanation:
To determine the net force acting on the block, we need to analyze the forces acting on it. The block is subject to two horizontal forces:
1. A **30 N force** acting to the **right**.
2. A **20 N force** acting to the **left**.
**Step 1: Identify the Direction of Forces**
- Rightward forces are considered positive.
- Leftward forces are considered negative.
**Step 2: Assign Values to Forces**
- The force to the right (F_right) = +30 N
- The force to the left (F_left) = -20 N
**Step 3: Calculate the Net Force**
The net force (F_net) can be calculated by summing the forces acting on the block:
\[
F_{\text{net}} = F_{\text{right}} + F_{\text{left}}
\]
Substituting the values:
\[
F_{\text{net}} = 30 \, \text{N} + (-20 \, \text{N}) = 30 \, \text{N} - 20 \, \text{N} = 10 \, \text{N}
\]
Since the result is positive, this indicates that the net force is directed to the right.
### Conclusion:
The net force acting on the block is **10 N to the right**. Therefore, the correct answer is **B**.
### Explanation of Other Options:
- **Option A: 50 N to the right**
- This option incorrectly adds the two forces together without considering their directions. The net force cannot simply be the sum of the magnitudes of the forces when they act in opposite directions.
- **Option C: 10 N to the left**
- This option is incorrect because it misinterprets the net force direction. The net force is positive, indicating a rightward direction, not leftward.
- **Option D: 0 N**
- This option suggests that the forces are balanced, which is not the case here. The forces are not equal; thus, they do not cancel each other out completely.
### Common Pitfalls:
- **Forgetting Direction**: Always remember to consider the direction of forces when calculating net force. Forces acting in opposite directions must be treated as positive and negative.
- **Confusing Magnitude with Net Force**: The net force is not simply the sum of the magnitudes of the forces; it must account for their directions.
### Revision Summary:
- The net force is calculated by summing all forces, considering their directions.
- A positive net force indicates motion in the direction of the positive force.
- Always check if forces are balanced or unbalanced to determine the net force correctly.
- Remember to apply the correct signs (+/-) based on the direction of the forces involved.