A concrete slab is moved across a room with a force of 250 N, while friction acts on the slab with a force of 15 N. What is the net force acting on the slab?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

To determine the net force acting on the slab, just add up the individual forces acting on the slab. These forces are the applied force of 250 N and friction, which has a force of 15 N. Since they are acting in direct opposition to each other, they have opposite mathematical signs in the calculation below.
Net force = Applied force + Friction force
Net force = 250 N + (-15 N)
Net force = 235 N
Remember that friction is working against the applied force (in the opposite direction), so it is a negative value.

A Concrete Slab Is Moved Across a Room with a Force