* Net Force: The overall effect of forces on an object is called the *net force*. It's the vector sum of all the forces acting on the object.
* Balanced Forces: When forces are equal in magnitude and opposite in direction, they cancel each other out, resulting in a net force of zero. This means the object will remain at rest or continue moving at a constant velocity (Newton's First Law).
* Unbalanced Forces: When forces are not equal in magnitude and opposite in direction, there is a non-zero net force. This net force causes the object to accelerate in the direction of the larger force.
Example:
Imagine pushing a box across the floor. If you push with 10 Newtons of force to the right and friction pushes back with 5 Newtons to the left, the net force is 5 Newtons to the right. This means the box will accelerate to the right.
Key Point: The direction of acceleration is always in the same direction as the net force.
