What is the net force's direction of an object at its highest point?

In summary, at the highest point of an object's trajectory, the net force acting on the object is always directed towards the center of the Earth due to the force of gravity. The direction of the net force remains constant at the highest point and is equal to the force of gravity. However, it is possible for the net force's direction to be different from the direction of the object's motion if there are external forces present. This direction of the net force affects the object's motion as it determines the direction of acceleration once the object begins to fall back down.
  • #1
Mikasun1108
10
8
Homework Statement
A ball is thrown upwards towards the sky. What is the direction of the net force when it reaches its highest point?
a. Left
b. Right
c. No direction
d. Upwards
e. Downwards
Relevant Equations
Regarding free fall
I'm not sure of my answer but it is e(downwards). I arrive at this answer since gravity always exists so no matter what happens it always pulls an object downwards. But I am not sure. Thank you
-sun1108
 
  • Like
Likes Delta2
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #2
Right.
 
  • Like
  • Haha
Likes docnet, Delta2 and Mikasun1108
  • #3
haruspex said:
Right.
Thank you for your help haruspex. Really appreciate it! hope you have a great day! :)
 
  • Like
Likes berkeman and Delta2

Related to What is the net force's direction of an object at its highest point?

1. What is the net force at an object's highest point?

The net force at an object's highest point is typically zero. This is because at the highest point, the object has reached its maximum height and is momentarily at rest before falling back down due to the force of gravity.

2. Does the direction of the net force change at an object's highest point?

No, the direction of the net force remains the same at an object's highest point. It is still directed towards the center of the Earth, which is the direction of the force of gravity.

3. How does the net force affect an object at its highest point?

The net force does not have a direct effect on an object at its highest point. The object's motion at this point is determined by its initial velocity and the force of gravity acting on it.

4. Can the net force be greater than zero at an object's highest point?

No, the net force cannot be greater than zero at an object's highest point. This is because the object has reached its maximum height and is momentarily at rest, so there is no acceleration and therefore no net force acting on it.

5. How does the net force change as an object falls from its highest point?

The net force increases as an object falls from its highest point. This is because the object is accelerating due to the force of gravity and the net force is equal to the product of the object's mass and its acceleration.

Similar threads

  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
8
Views
262
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
6
Views
201
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
30
Views
2K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
8
Views
269
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
2
Replies
62
Views
3K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
7
Views
527
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
4
Views
696
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
7
Views
1K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
7
Views
2K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
2
Views
243
Back
Top