A net force is applied to a moving object. Which statement best describes the effect of the force?
The force will cause a change in the direction of the object.
The force will cause a change in the direction of the object.
The force will cause the object to come to a stop.
The force will cause the object to come to a stop.
The force will cause the speed of the object to increase.
The force will cause the speed of the object to increase.
The force will cause a change in the momentum of the object.
The force will cause a change in the momentum of the object.
The force will cause a change in the momentum of the object.
The correct statement is: "The force will cause a change in the momentum of the object."
To understand why, we need to recognize that force is related to changes in momentum. Momentum is the product of an object's mass and its velocity. When a net force is applied to a moving object, it causes a change in the object's momentum.
To calculate the change in momentum, you need to know the magnitude and direction of the force, as well as the time over which the force is applied. The change in momentum is equal to the force multiplied by the time of application.
If the force acts in the same direction as the object's initial motion, it will cause the object's speed to increase, resulting in a positive change in momentum. On the other hand, if the force acts in the opposite direction to the object's motion, it will eventually bring the object to a stop, leading to a negative change in momentum.
So, in summary, the application of a net force to a moving object will cause a change in its momentum, either by increasing or decreasing its speed, depending on the direction of the force.