Balanced forces do NOT cause acceleration.

Here's why:

* Acceleration is the rate of change of velocity. Velocity includes both speed and direction.

* Balanced forces mean that the forces acting on an object are equal and opposite. This means they cancel each other out.

Here's how it plays out in different scenarios:

* Object at rest: If an object is at rest and balanced forces are acting on it, it will remain at rest.

* Object in motion: If an object is in motion and balanced forces are acting on it, it will continue moving at a constant speed in the same direction (no change in velocity).

When an object speeds up, slows down, or changes direction, it's because there is an unbalanced force acting on it. This unbalanced force causes the object to accelerate.

Think of it like this:

* Balanced forces: Like a tug-of-war where both teams are equally strong - no one moves.

* Unbalanced forces: Like a tug-of-war where one team is stronger - that team will pull the rope and cause movement (acceleration).