Question

what is the magnitude and direction (right or left) of the net force acting on the box?
dropdown n to the dropdown
(image shows a box on a table with upward force ( f = 12,\text{n} ), downward force ( f = 12,\text{n} ), leftward force ( f = 5,\text{n} ), rightward force ( f = 10,\text{n} ), and a person pushing the box left)

Explanation:

Step1: Identify horizontal forces

Horizontal forces: Left force \( F_1 = 25\,\text{N} \), Right force \( F_2 = 18\,\text{N} \). Vertical forces (up \( 12\,\text{N} \), down \( 12\,\text{N} \)) cancel out.

Step2: Calculate net horizontal force

Net force \( F_{\text{net}} = F_1 - F_2 = 25 - 18 = 7\,\text{N} \). Direction: Left (since left force is larger).

Answer:

7 N to the left