Balanced and Unbalanced Forces

What happens when an unbalanced force acts on an object?
the object accelerates
When two forces act on an object at the same time, the direction as well as the magnitude of the force determine the motion (including direction) of the object

If the two forces are in the same direction, the sum of the forces (net force) will cause a larger acceleration than either force on its own

If the two forces are in opposite directions then the net force could be zero – in which case there would be no acceleration
OR
the sum of the two forces will result in a net force in one direction

Draw a free body diagram that you think would represent two forces in opposite directions that would result in no net force (and thus, no acceleration)

Draw a free body diagram with two forces in opposite directions that would result in a net force (and acceleration)

It ’s really, really important to remember:
a net force results in acceleration
BUT
no net force does not mean no motion – an object will move at a constant speed in a straight line with no net force!!!

What if the forces aren ’t in line with each other?

Balanced and Unbalanced Forces

by Jan Parker

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