Final answer:
The sum of all forces acting on an object is the net force, representing the vector sum of all external forces. This includes forces such as normal force, weight, deforming forces, and restoring forces.
Step-by-step explanation:
The sum of all of the forces acting on an object is known as the net force. It is essentially the vector sum of all external forces acting on the object. When analyzing such forces, a free-body diagram can be quite helpful. It is a graphical illustration that shows the relative magnitude and direction of all forces acting upon an object. Examples of forces that can act on an object include:
- The normal force, which is the support force exerted upon an object that is in contact with another stable object.
- The weight of the object, which is the force of gravity acting on a mass.
- A deforming force, which can change the object's shape.
- A restoring force, which brings the object back to its equilibrium position.
It's important to remember that forces are vector quantities, which means that the net force is not just about the magnitudes of the forces but also their directions. According to Essential Knowledge 3.B.1, the net force acting on an object when it interacts with several others is the vector sum of all individual forces.