The figure shows two forces acting on an object,with magnitudes F₁ = 78 N and F₂ = 26 N.What third force will cause the object to be in equilibrium (acceleration equals zero)? A) 52 N pointing down B) 52 N pointing up C) 82 N pointing down D) 82 N pointing up

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

To be in equilibrium, the net force on the object must be zero. Therefore, the third force must be equal in magnitude and opposite in direction to the vector sum of the other two forces. We can find the vector sum of F₁ and F₂ using the Pythagorean theorem: |F₁ + F₂| = √(78^2 + 26^2) = 82 N Since the two given forces are in opposite directions, the third force must be in the opposite direction of the larger force (78 N). Therefore, the third force must be 82 N - 78 N = 4 N downward. Thus the answer is choice A) 52 N pointing down.

The Figure Shows Two Forces Acting on an Object,with Magnitudes