Chapter 4, Problem 3Q

To determine

Is it possible to have net force zero when the object is moving.

Answer to Problem 3Q

Solution:

Yes. It is possible for the net force acting on it to be zero if an object is moving

Explanation of Solution

According Newton’s second law

$F=ma$

$a=F/m$

where a is the acceleration, m is the mass of the object and F is the force

If net force is zero

$\begin{array}{l}a=F/m\hfill \\ a=0\hfill \end{array}$

If net force F is zero then acceleration becomes zero from the above equation. Acceleration is the rate of change of velocity. It means that velocity is constant. If the object is already moving in one direction at a constant speed, then it will keep moving when there is no external force applied to it.