Question

which of the following best describes the sum of all forces acting on an object? (1 point)
net force, which is a vector sum
net force, which is a scalar sum
gravitational force, which is a vector sum
acceleration, which is a vector sum

Explanation:

• Force is a vector quantity. The sum of all forces acting on an object is called the net force.
• When adding vectors (such as forces), we use vector addition rules (not scalar addition which ignores direction).
• Gravitational force is just one type of force, not the sum of all forces.
• Acceleration is related to force by \(F = ma\) (Newton's second law), but acceleration itself is not the sum of forces.

Answer:

net force, which is a vector sum