Opposing and Applied Forces

In summary, the question is asking for the distance traveled by a 15 kg object after experiencing an applied force of 5.5 N[N] and an opposing frictional force of 2.5 N[S] for 4.0s starting from rest. The user is seeking step-by-step guidance and has been directed to post their question in the Homework Help subforum of Physics Forums, along with showing their work and relevant equations and concepts. The hint suggests using one of Newton's Laws of Motion to solve the problem.
  • #1
emmuuhhlee
1
0
I know this should be an easy question but I am just a tad confused. Here is the question:

A 15 kg object experiences an applied force of 5.5 N[N] and an opposing frictional force of 2.5 N. If the object starts from rest, how far will it have traveled after 4.0s?

It would be wonderful if you could show me step by step. Thanks so much!
 
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  • #2
Hi emmuuhhlee,

Welcome to PF! For future reference, you should post questions like these in the Homework Help subforum of Physics Forums from now on:

https://www.physicsforums.com/forumdisplay.php?f=152

In addition, it is forum rules that you show some of your work. When you create a new post there, you will find that a template appears in the place where you are supposed to compose your post. It looks like this:

Homework Statement

Homework Equations


The Attempt at a Solution


So, you've already provided the information for #1. What do you think some of the relevant equations and physical concepts are (#2)? What have you done so far to approach this problem (#3)?

Hint: one of Newton's Laws of Motion contains all of the information you need to know in order to solve this problem.
 

1. What is the difference between opposing and applied forces?

Opposing forces are forces that act in opposite directions and cancel each other out, resulting in no overall movement or change. Applied forces, on the other hand, are forces that are actively applied to an object and result in movement or change.

2. Can opposing forces ever result in movement or change?

No, opposing forces will always cancel each other out and result in no overall movement or change. This is due to Newton's First Law of Motion, which states that an object at rest will remain at rest unless acted upon by an unbalanced force.

3. What are some examples of opposing forces?

Examples of opposing forces include the force of gravity pulling an object towards the ground and the force of friction pushing against the movement of an object.

4. How do applied forces affect an object's motion?

Applied forces can either cause an object to move or change its speed or direction of motion. This is due to Newton's Second Law of Motion, which states that the acceleration of an object is directly proportional to the net force acting on it and inversely proportional to its mass.

5. Can applied forces ever result in no overall movement or change?

Yes, if the applied forces are equal and opposite, they will cancel each other out and result in no overall movement or change. This is known as equilibrium, and it can occur when an object is at rest or moving at a constant speed in a straight line.

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