* Net Force: For an object to maintain constant velocity, the net force acting on it must be zero.
* Balanced Forces: This means that the force being exerted is being balanced by an equal and opposite force.
Examples:
* Pushing a box across a floor at a constant speed: You're applying a force to the box, but friction between the box and the floor is an equal and opposite force. The net force is zero, so the box moves at a constant velocity.
* An object in freefall: Gravity exerts a force on the object, but air resistance eventually balances this force out. The object reaches a terminal velocity (constant velocity) due to the balanced forces.
Key Point: Constant velocity means constant speed and direction. Even if a force is present, as long as it is balanced by other forces, the object will not accelerate and will continue moving at a constant velocity.
