Here's a breakdown:

* Equal but opposite: This means the forces have the same magnitude (strength) but act in directly opposing directions.

* Cancel each other out: When balanced forces act on an object, their combined effect is zero.

* No change in motion: This means the object will either remain at rest if it was stationary or continue moving at a constant velocity if it was already in motion.

Examples of balanced forces:

* A book sitting on a table: The force of gravity pulling the book down is balanced by the normal force from the table pushing the book up.

* A car moving at a constant speed: The forward force from the engine is balanced by the frictional forces opposing its motion (air resistance, friction from the road, etc.).

Key takeaway: Balanced forces result in a net force of zero, leading to no change in an object's motion.