Final answer:
When the net force on an object is zero, it means the forces are balanced, resulting in the object being in a state of equilibrium.
Step-by-step explanation:
When the net force on an object is zero, we say that the two forces are balanced. This is because the opposing forces are equal in magnitude and opposite in direction, effectively cancelling each other out and leaving the object in a state of equilibrium. As expressed in the equation form, this can be stated as net F = 0, which represents the first condition necessary to achieve equilibrium. The notion that balanced forces lead to no net force is critical in understanding motion and is used to analyze situations such as the force of gravity acting against the normal force, or an applied force against friction.