Moving an object with constant force(N) in x direction

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SUMMARY

In the discussion, participants clarify that it is impossible to maintain constant velocity while simultaneously experiencing constant acceleration. When a force of 1N is applied to a 1kg object, it accelerates at 1 m/s², indicating a change in velocity. For an object to move at constant velocity, the net force acting on it must be zero, meaning any applied force must be balanced by opposing forces. Therefore, continuous application of a force without counteracting forces will result in acceleration, not constant velocity.

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Kaxa2000
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Is it possible to continuously push on an object with a force of 1N in the x direction and keep moving it constant velocity? What is an example?


I know that if the object was 1kg and you pushed it with a force of 1N it would accelerate at 1 m/s^2. Can you have constant velocity and constant acceleration?
 
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No.

You can do one or the other, not both. See, acceleration is defined as the instantaneous rate of change of velocity with respect to time. However, if velocity is constant, its value at any point in time will be the same, so its rate of change will be zero, hence 0 acceleration. The converse is true as well. If you have some acceleration, then you must have a change in velocity.
 
Kaxa2000 said:
Is it possible to continuously push on an object with a force of 1N in the x direction and keep moving it constant velocity? What is an example?

It depends what the other forces are.

Can you think of an example? :smile:
 

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