select the correct answer.\nforce due to gravity = 12 n\napplied force = 20 n\nforce due to friction = 20…

select the correct answer.\nforce due to gravity = 12 n\napplied force = 20 n\nforce due to friction = 20 n\nforce exerted by the ground\nin the above diagram, the block is at static equilibrium on the ground. what is the value of the force exerted by the ground on the block if the force due to gravity is 12 newtons?\na. 20 newtons\nb. 12 newtons\nc. -12 newtons\nd. -20 newtons\ne. 0 newtons
Answer
Explanation:
Step1: Analyze vertical - forces
In static equilibrium, the net force in the vertical direction is zero. The vertical forces acting on the block are the force due to gravity ($F_g$) acting downwards and the force exerted by the ground ($F_{ground}$) acting upwards.
Step2: Apply equilibrium condition
Let the upward direction be positive and the downward direction be negative. According to the equilibrium condition $\sum F_y = 0$. So, $F_{ground}-F_g = 0$. Given $F_g=12\ N$ (downward), then $F_{ground}=F_g$. Since the force due to gravity acts downwards and the force exerted by the ground acts in the opposite direction, $F_{ground}=- 12\ N$ (the negative sign indicates the direction is opposite to the direction of the gravitational force).
Answer:
C. -12 newtons