Final answer:
The forces involved in the scenario are the force due to gravity, the buoyant force, and the net force. The net force is directed downwards, causing the balloon to descend.
Step-by-step explanation:
The free-body force diagram that depicts the forces involved in the scenario is as follows:
- Force due to gravity (Fg): This force acts downwards and has a magnitude of 1200 N.
- Buoyant force (Fb): This force acts upwards and has a magnitude of 800 N.
- Net force (Fnet): The net force is the difference between the force due to gravity and the buoyant force. So, Fnet = Fg - Fb = (1200 N) - (800 N) = 400 N.
From the free-body force diagram, we can see that the net force is directed downwards. Therefore, the balloon will accelerate in the downward direction. This means that the balloon will descend.