Model of Forces Acting on Two Blocks on a Flat, Frictionless Surface
Force on 1 N Block at Rest
In this scenario, we have a 1 N block at rest on a flat, frictionless surface. The only force acting on the block is its weight, which is 1 N downwards. We represent this force with a downward arrow labeled as 1 N.
Force on 1 N Block with 2 N Applied Force
When a 2 N force is applied to the 1 N block in one horizontal direction, the total force acting on the block becomes 3 N (1 N weight + 2 N applied force). We represent the 1 N weight with a downward arrow labeled as 1 N and the 2 N applied force with a horizontal arrow labeled as 2 N. The resulting total force of 3 N is shown in the direction of the applied force.
Comparison and Explanation of Motion
Comparing the two scenarios, we see that the 1 N block at rest remains stationary due to the balanced forces acting on it. In contrast, the 1 N block with the 2 N applied force experiences an unbalanced force of 3 N, causing it to accelerate in the direction of the applied force. This demonstrates Newton's Second Law of Motion, where the acceleration of an object is directly proportional to the net force acting on it.
How do the forces on the two blocks on a flat, frictionless surface affect their motion? The forces on the 1 N block at rest balance each other out, resulting in no net force and no motion. On the other hand, the 1 N block with 2 N of applied force experiences an unbalanced force, causing it to accelerate in the direction of the applied force.