📚 Topic Summary
Net force is the vector sum of all the forces acting on an object. It determines the object's acceleration according to Newton's Second Law of Motion. When forces act in the same direction, they add up. When forces act in opposite directions, they subtract. If the net force is zero, the object is in equilibrium (either at rest or moving at a constant velocity).
To solve net force problems, it's crucial to draw a free-body diagram, resolve forces into components (if necessary), and apply Newton's Second Law ($F_{net} = ma$). Remember to choose a coordinate system and stick with it!
🧠 Part A: Vocabulary
Match the term with the correct definition:
| Term |
Definition |
| 1. Net Force |
A. The force that opposes motion |
| 2. Free-Body Diagram |
B. The vector sum of all forces acting on an object |
| 3. Newton's Second Law |
C. A diagram showing all forces acting on an object |
| 4. Friction |
D. $F_{net} = ma$ |
| 5. Equilibrium |
E. State where the net force is zero |
✍️ Part B: Fill in the Blanks
Complete the following paragraph with the correct terms:
According to __________, the net force acting on an object is equal to the object's mass multiplied by its __________. A __________ is a visual representation of all the forces acting on an object. When the net force is __________, the object is said to be in __________.
🤔 Part C: Critical Thinking
Explain, in your own words, how understanding net force helps us predict the motion of objects. Provide a real-world example.