Final answer:
The net force applied to a 5.5 kg box with an acceleration of 4.2 m/s2 is calculated using Newton's second law (F = m × a), resulting in a force of 23.1 N.
Step-by-step explanation:
The question involves finding the net force applied to a box with a mass of 5.5 kg that is accelerating at 4.2 m/s2. According to Newton's second law of motion, the net force applied to an object is equal to the mass of the object multiplied by its acceleration (F = m × a).
Using the formula, we can calculate:
F = m × a = 5.5 kg × 4.2 m/s2 = 23.1 N.
Therefore, the correct answer is D) 23.1 N.