Question

This diagram shows the forces acting on a car. The center dot represents the car, and the arrows represent the forces acting on the car. Values are given for each of these forces. Refer to the diagram to answer the question.

Based on the data given, in what direction will the car accelerate?

A- downward

B-Toward the right

C- Toward the left

D- upward

Explain why.

Answer 1

Answer : The correct option is B- Towards the left.

Solution : Given,

Force on car in upward direction,
`F_1` = 6000 N

Force on car in downward direction,
`F_2` = 6000 N

Force on car in right direction,
`F_3` = 5000 N

Force on car in left direction,
`F_4` = 6000 N

Force : Force is equal to the mass multiplied by the acceleration. The force is directly proportional to the acceleration.

Formula : F = m × a

where, F is force, m is mass and a is acceleration.

From the given diagram we conclude that the
`F_1` and
`F_2` are in opposite direction and the force acting on car are same. So, their net force is zero.

And in case of
`F_3` and
`F_4`, the net force will not be zero because force acting on car are different. The car will accelerate towards left direction because
`F_4` is higher than the
`F_3`.

So, the car will accelerate towards left direction.