A large box is pushed across the floor at a constant speed of 4ms.Which – [Free] B20
A large box is pushed across the floor at a constant speed of 4ms. Which conclusions can you draw from the forces affecting the bon? Select one: a. If the pushing force of the box is doubled, the speed of the box is increased to that movement! c. The pushing force at constant speed needs to exceed the weight of the bor d. The pushing force at constant speed needs to exceed the friction force between the to water there/ e. The pushing force at constant speed needs to be equivalent to the friction force bettem the wave as as
Answer
Forces on a Box Moving at Constant Speed
Physics Concept: Newton’s First Law of Motion (Law of Inertia)
🔹 Scenario Overview
A large box is being pushed across the floor at a constant speed of 4.0 m/s.
🟨 Newton’s First Law of Motion
“An object in motion stays in motion at a constant velocity unless acted upon by a net external force.”
Since the speed is constant, the net force acting on the box is zero. This means that:
- The pushing force equals the frictional force.
- There is no acceleration (no net force).
🟩 Correct Conclusion
✅ The pushing force at constant speed needs to be equivalent to the friction force between the box and the floor.
This balance ensures that the object moves at a constant velocity, without speeding up or slowing down.
❌ Incorrect Options Explained
- “The pushing force must exceed the weight of the box” – Incorrect because weight acts vertically, while pushing and friction are horizontal forces.
- “Doubling the pushing force doubles the speed” – Incorrect because constant speed implies balance, not acceleration. Extra force would cause acceleration, not a doubling of speed instantly.
🔴 Summary
When an object is moving at a constant speed:
- The net force is zero.
- Applied force = Frictional force.
- There is no change in velocity.