Two forces F1 and F2 with the same magnitude act on a particle along the same axis.
This results in the speed of the particle increasing in the positive direction.
Which one of the following is NOT possible? Be sure to select the incorrect scenario.
A. The work done by F1 is zero, and the work done by F2 is positive.
B. The work done by F1 is positive, and the work done by F2 is zero.
C. The work done by F1 is positive, and the work done by F2 is negative.
D. The work done by each force is negative.
The correct answer is B. The work done by F1 is positive, and the work done by F2 is zero.
If the speed of the particle is increasing in the positive direction, then there must be a net positive work done on the particle. In this case, both forces are acting in the same direction, so in order for the net work to be positive, both forces must do positive work. Therefore, option B, where the work done by F2 is zero, is not possible.