Here's what that means:
* Equal in Strength: The forces have the same magnitude (amount of force).
* Opposite in Direction: The forces act in directly opposing directions.
Result of Balanced Forces:
When balanced forces act on an object, the object will either:
* Remain at rest: If the object was already stationary.
* Continue moving at a constant velocity: If the object was already in motion.
Examples:
* A book on a table: The force of gravity pulling the book down is balanced by the force of the table pushing the book up. The book remains at rest.
* A car moving at a constant speed: The force of the engine pushing the car forward is balanced by the forces of friction and air resistance acting against it. The car continues moving at a constant speed.
Key Point: Balanced forces do not cause any change in the object's motion.