Question

A piano is hanging by a rope. Beside it are two vectors. The vector pointing upward is longer and labeled F Subscript T Baseline = 6,000 N. The second vector is downward and labeled F Subscript g Baseline = 5,500 N. What is the net force acting on the piano?

A)11,500 N
B) –11,500 N
C)500 N
D)–500 N

Answer 1

The net force acting on the piano is the difference between the upward tension force and the downward gravitational force, resulting in a net force of 500 N, which is positive and indicates an upward acceleration.

Step-by-step explanation:

To determine the net force acting on the piano, we must identify forces and consider their directions. The force of tension, FT = 6,000 N, acts upward while the force of gravity, Fg = 5,500 N, acts downward. The net force is calculated as the difference between these two forces since they are in opposite directions. Therefore, the net force (Fnet) on the piano is:

Fnet = FT - Fg = 6,000 N - 5,500 N = 500

Given that upward force is considered positive and downward force is negative, the net force acting on the piano is +500 N, which is option (C).