Let's analyze each action to determine if they are balanced or unbalanced and provide explanations.
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3 people pushing a car up a hill
- Unbalanced
- Explanation: In this scenario, since three people are pushing a car up a hill, there is likely a net force acting in the direction of the push (up the hill). Even though there may be resistance due to gravity and friction, the action of three people collectively exerting force is likely greater than the opposing forces, resulting in an unbalanced situation that allows the car to move.
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2 people pushing on opposite sides of a box with equal force
- Balanced
- Explanation: Here, since both people are applying equal force in opposite directions, the forces exerted on the box counteract each other. This results in a net force of zero, which means the box will not move, and the situation is balanced.
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A balance with 10 gram weights in each pan
- Balanced
- Explanation: In this case, the two pans of the balance scale each have the same weight (10 grams). The forces exerted by the weights are equal and opposite, resulting in a net force of zero. Therefore, the system is balanced, and the balance stays even.
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Spiking a volleyball
- Unbalanced
- Explanation: When a player spikes a volleyball, they exert a force on the ball that is greater than any opposing forces (like gravity and air resistance) at that moment. This results in the ball accelerating in the direction of the spike. Because the force applied to the volleyball is greater than the forces acting against it, this situation is unbalanced.
In summary:
- 3 people pushing a car up a hill: Unbalanced
- 2 people pushing on opposite sides of a box with equal force: Balanced
- A balance with 10 gram weights in each pan: Balanced
- Spiking a volleyball: Unbalanced
7 answers