Question
Science Question on Balanced and Unbalanced Forces
An object experiences a net zero external unbalanced force. Is it possible for the object to be travelling with a non-zero velocity? If yes, state the conditions that must be placed on the magnitude and direction of the velocity. If no, provide a reason.
Answer
According to the Newton's 1st law of motion, no net force is required to move an object which is moving with a constant velocity. So, when an object experiences a net zero external unbalanced force, then it can move with a non-zero velocity. Also, if an object is initially at rest not net force acts upon it, thus the object may not move at all.