Question

select the correct image. mathew is simulating forces on a simple machine. he runs four tests as shown. which test illustrates a balanced net force? test 1 test 2 test 3 test 4

Explanation:

Step1: Recall balanced - force concept

A balanced net force occurs when the sum of all forces acting on an object is zero. Forces are vectors, so both magnitude and direction matter.

Step2: Analyze test 1

In test 1, two forces act in the same direction. Their sum is not zero, so it's unbalanced.

Step3: Analyze test 2

In test 2, there is a horizontal force and a vertical force. They don't cancel each other, so it's unbalanced.

Step4: Analyze test 3

In test 3, two equal - magnitude forces act in opposite directions horizontally. The net horizontal force is zero. There are no other forces shown, so the net force on the object is zero, which means it has a balanced net force.

Step5: Analyze test 4

In test 4, there are two vertical forces, but no horizontal forces are shown to balance them out in a way that the net force is zero. So it's unbalanced.

Answer:

test 3