Question

A spring scale rests on a horizontal table. Two students pull at opposite ends of the balance each with a force of 250 N. What is the reading on the spring balance?

A. 0 N
B. 250 N
C. 500 N
D. 750 N

Answer 1

The spring scale's reading is 0 N because the opposing forces exerted by the two students cancel each other out.

Step-by-step explanation:

If two students are pulling on a spring scale with equal and opposite forces, the net force on the scale is zero. Since the forces are acting in opposite directions, they cancel each other out. Therefore, the reading on the spring scale would be 0 N (A).