Two students push on the opposite sides of a crate, with the force applied by each student in newtons (N), as shown in the diagram.

In this scenario, two students apply forces on opposite sides of a crate: one applies a force of 40 newtons to the left, and the other applies a force of 53 newtons to the right.

1. **Net Force Calculation**: To find the net force acting on the crate, we need to subtract the smaller force from the larger force, while keeping track of the direction:
\[
\text{Net Force} = \text{Force to the right} - \text{Force to the left} = 53 \, \text{N} - 40 \, \text{N} = 13 \, \text{N}
\]

2. **Direction of the Net Force**: Since the net force is positive and greater than zero, the direction of the net force is toward the right.

3. **Effect on the Crate**: Because there is a net force acting to the right, the crate will accelerate in that direction.

In summary, the crate will move toward the right with a net force of 13 newtons in that direction.