Question

the box in the picture begins motionless, and then both forces are applied at the same time. describe the resulting motion of the box. a the box will not move. b the box will move to the left. c the box will move to the right. d the box will move to the left and then the right.

Explanation:

Step1: Analyze forces

There are two forces applied to the box, 125 N to the right and 90 N upwards. There is a net - force in the right - hand direction as there is no equal and opposite force to counter the 125 N force horizontally.

Step2: Determine motion

According to Newton's second law ($F = ma$), when there is a non - zero net force acting on an object, the object will accelerate in the direction of the net force. So the box will move to the right.

Answer:

B. The box will move to the right.