1. Identify the Directions:
- Both forces are acting in the same direction (e.g., both to the right, both upwards).
2. Determine the Magnitudes:
- Note the magnitudes of each force (e.g., 10 Newtons and 5 Newtons).
3. Add the Magnitudes:
- Simply add the magnitudes of the two forces.
- In our example, 10 N + 5 N = 15 N.
4. Result:
- The net force is the sum of the magnitudes, acting in the same direction as the original forces. In our example, the net force is 15 Newtons in the same direction as the original forces.
Example:
Let's say you push a box with a force of 20 Newtons to the right, and your friend pushes it with a force of 15 Newtons to the right. The net force acting on the box is:
* 20 N + 15 N = 35 N to the right.
Key Point: When forces act in the same direction, they reinforce each other, resulting in a larger net force.
