A force acts on an object. Which option describes an action that could prevent the object from moving?
A: a force applied in the opposite direction with a greater magnitude at the same time
B: a force applied in the opposite direction with the same magnitude at the same time
C: a force applied in the same direction with the same magnitude at the same time
D: a force applied in the same direction with a greater magnitude at the same time
A force applied in the opposite direction with the same magnitude at the same time (option B) could prevent the object from moving. This is because the force applied in the opposite direction would cancel out the original force, resulting in a net force of zero and no movement of the object.
To determine which option describes an action that could prevent the object from moving, we need to consider the concept of balanced and unbalanced forces.
If the object is not moving, it could be due to balanced forces acting on it. Balanced forces occur when two forces of equal magnitude and opposite direction are applied to an object. The net force on the object is zero, resulting in no motion.
Let's review each option:
A: a force applied in the opposite direction with a greater magnitude at the same time
If a force is applied in the opposite direction with a greater magnitude, it would create an unbalanced force, causing the object to move in the direction of the smaller force. Therefore, this option doesn't prevent the object from moving.
B: a force applied in the opposite direction with the same magnitude at the same time
If a force is applied in the opposite direction with the same magnitude, it would create a balanced force, resulting in no motion. This option describes an action that could prevent the object from moving.
C: a force applied in the same direction with the same magnitude at the same time
If a force is applied in the same direction with the same magnitude, it would create an unbalanced force, causing the object to move in the same direction. Therefore, this option doesn't prevent the object from moving.
D: a force applied in the same direction with a greater magnitude at the same time
If a force is applied in the same direction with a greater magnitude, it would create an unbalanced force, causing the object to move in the same direction. Therefore, this option doesn't prevent the object from moving.
Based on this analysis, option B: a force applied in the opposite direction with the same magnitude at the same time is the correct answer.
The correct option that describes an action that could prevent the object from moving is:
A) A force applied in the opposite direction with a greater magnitude at the same time.