A cement block is pulled by a side handle with a force of 150 N. As the block slides, friction slows it with a force of 50 N. What is the magnitude of the net force acting on the block?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

To determine the net force acting on an object, just add together all of the forces acting on the object. The two forces are the applied force and friction, and since they are working directly against each other, the net force (Fnet) can simply be expressed as:
Net force = Applied force + Friction force
Net force = 150 N + (-50 N)
Net force = 50 N
Remember that friction is working against the applied force (in the opposite direction), so it is a negative value.

A Cement Block Is Pulled by a Side Handle with a Force