Question

a horizontal force of 24 n is applied to a box on a level surface.
the box is accelerating at a rate of 3.5 m/s² against a frictional force of 18 n. what is the mass of the box?
hint: you need to calculate first the net force

Explanation:

Step1: Calculate the net force

According to the formula for net force \(F_{net}=F_{applied}-F_{friction}\). Given \(F_{applied} = 24\space N\) and \(F_{friction}=18\space N\), then \(F_{net}=24 - 18=6\space N\).

Step2: Use Newton's second law \(F = ma\) to find mass

We know \(F_{net}=ma\), and \(a = 3.5\space m/s^{2}\), \(F_{net}=6\space N\). Rearranging the formula for \(m\) gives \(m=\frac{F_{net}}{a}\). Substituting the values, \(m=\frac{6}{3.5}\approx1.71\space kg\).

Answer:

\(1.71\space kg\)