Question

Two horizontal forces, 145 N and 315 N are applied to a sled resting on a frictionless skating rink .If they are applied in opposite directions, what is the net horizontal force on the sled?

Answer 1

Given:

Two forces applied, $\bold{145N}$ and $\bold{315N}$

Both forces are horizontal and in opposite direction.

To Find:

The net horizontal force on the sled.

Solution:

Let, magnitude of forces $\bold{F_1=145N}$ and $\bold{F_2=315N}$

In the question we have also given that the two forces are in opposite direction, hence, if, $\bold{F_1=145N}$ then $\bold{F_2=-315N}$

Now, let net force be $\bold{F_{net}}$,

∴$\bold{F_{net}=F_1+F_2}$

Putting the values we get,

$\bold{F_{net}=145N-315N=-170N}$

Here, negative sign indicates the direction, i.e. $\bold{F_{net}}$ is in the direction of force $\bold{F_{2}}$ and opposite to $\bold{F_{1}}$.

∴Net horizontal force on the sled is $\bold{170\hspace{1mm} N}$.