A force acts on an object. Which option describes an action that could prevent the object from moving?
1. A force applied in the opposite direction with the same magnitude at the same time
2. A force applied in the same direction with the same magnitude at the same time
3. A force applied in the same direction with a greater magnitude at the same time
4. A force applied in the opposite direction with a greater magnitude at the same time
4. A force applied in the opposite direction with a greater magnitude at the same time
The correct option is: 1. A force applied in the opposite direction with the same magnitude at the same time.
The correct option that describes an action that could prevent the object from moving is option 1: A force applied in the opposite direction with the same magnitude at the same time.
To understand why option 1 is correct, let's consider Newton's first law of motion, also known as the law of inertia. According to this law, an object at rest will remain at rest, and an object in motion will continue moving in a straight line at a constant speed unless acted upon by an external force.
In this case, a force is acting on the object, which means there is potential for the object to move. However, to prevent the object from moving, an equal and opposite force can be applied. This is known as balanced forces.
By applying a force in the opposite direction with the same magnitude, the two forces will cancel each other out. The net force on the object will be zero, resulting in no acceleration and therefore no movement. This is why option 1 is the correct answer.