Chapter 3, Problem 52R

To determine

The direction of the net force acting on a car when it is slowing down.

Explanation of Solution

Introduction:

The algebraic sum of all the forces represents the net force acting on an object. The net force is responsible for the direction of the motion.

When a car is moving in a straight line, the forces responsible for the movement of the car are friction force and inertia force. The net force on the car decides the direction of the motion of the car.

As the car is slowing down, the final velocity keeps on decreasing due to the rolling position. The value of the rolling friction is more than the car’s force. Therefore, the direction of net force on a car will be in opposite direction of its motion.

Conclusion:

Therefore, the direction of net force on a car will be in opposite direction of its motion.