Question detail
If a 12 N force acts upward and a 5 N force acts downward on a ladder leaning against a wall, what is the direction of the resultant force?
Try the question, check the answer, then read the explanation to understand the curriculum point.
At a glance
MCQ
Type
practice
Style
Topic
Forces and their interactions
Question
- A. Upward
- B. Downward
- C. Horizontal
- D. Depends on the ladder’s angle
Answer
Downward
Explanation
The vertical forces are along the same line; 12 N upward minus 5 N downward gives a net 7 N downward.
Common mistake
Vector Addition Mistake
Students often add forces as if they are scalar quantities, ignoring their directions.
Always consider the direction of each force when combining them; use vector diagrams to visualize the addition.
Related flashcards
Flashcard 1 of 5
Press Space to flip, arrows to move
Related practice questions
Question 1 of 5
Choose an answer, get feedback, then move sideways through the set.
0 of 4 attempted