The Concept of Combined Force

Understanding Combined Force

A cart is moving toward the right and slowing down, as in Activity 1-1. Predict the direction of the combined (net) force on the cart.

The prediction of the combined (net) force on the cart is towards the left direction. Net Force, which is essentially the total of all the forces operating on an item, is the combination or consequence of those forces. Balanced forces are those acting on an item that add up to a net force of zero. The velocity of an object is unaffected by balanced forces, as seen in the illustration on the page opposite. Unbalanced forces are those acting on an item that add together to provide a net force that is not zero.

Motion is toward right but the cart is slowing down so the cart is accelerating towards left. Now F = ma. Since the acceleration is to the left, hence the net force is also to the left.

What is the direction of the combined (net) force on the cart?

The direction of the combined (net) force on the cart is towards the left.