Final answer:
The piece of wood floating on water is subjected to gravity pulling it downward, a buoyant force acting upward as described by Archimedes' Principle, and friction from the water. Magnetic force does not typically act on wood as it is non-magnetic.
Step-by-step explanation:
The forces that act on a piece of wood floating on water include:
- Gravity, which pulls the wood downward.
- Buoyant force, which is the net upward force on any object in a fluid, as stated by Archimedes' Principle. This is the force that causes objects to float if it is greater than the object's weight.
- Friction, which includes the resistance between the water and the surface of the wood as it moves or maintains its position.
A magnetic force is generally not involved in the floating of a piece of wood on water unless there is a specific context involving magnetic materials or fields. For a wood piece, which is typically non-magnetic, this force would not be applicable.