Question

A 40 N force is applied to a 10 kg block, but the object only accelerates at 2 m/s^2. What is the net force acting on the block? Use a free body diagram to explain your answer.

A) 20 N
B) 40 N
C) 60 N
D) 80 N

Answer 1

Using Newton's second law of motion, the net force acting on a 10 kg block with an acceleration of 2 m/s^2 is calculated to be 20 N (option A).

Step-by-step explanation:

The question pertains to calculating the net force acting on a block when a known force is applied and the resulting acceleration is given. According to Newton's second law of motion (F=ma), the net force on an object is equal to the mass of the object multiplied by its acceleration. Given that the acceleration of the 10 kg block is 2 m/s2, the net force can be calculated as:

• F = ma
• F = 10 kg × 2 m/s2
• F = 20 N

Therefore, the net force acting on the block is 20 N, which is option A. This calculation assumes that the total force accounts for all forces acting on the object, including friction and any other opposing forces.