Question

A force of 20 N is being applied to the right on a box. If the box is moving at a constant velocity to the right, what is the magnitude and direction of the force of friction?

A. 20 N to the right
B. 20 N to the left
C. 20 N up
D. 20 N down
E. No friction is acting on the block

Answer 1

The force of friction acting on the box that is moving at a constant velocity to the right with an applied force of 20 N must be 20 N to the left, as per Newton's first law of motion.

Step-by-step explanation:

If a force of 20 N is being applied to the right on a box and the box is moving with a constant velocity, then according to Newton's first law of motion, the net external force acting on the box must be zero. This means that the forces in the direction of motion and opposite to it must be balanced. Therefore, the magnitude of the force of friction must be equal and opposite to the applied force to maintain a constant velocity. In this case, the force of friction is 20 N to the left.