A box of mass 64 kg is at rest on a horizontal frictionless surface. A constant horizontal force F~ then acts on the box and accelerates it to the right. It is observed that it takes the box 5.4 seconds to travel 32 meters. What is the magnitude of the force?

The correct answer is;

The magnitude of the force is 35.12 N

Explanation:

To solve the question, we note that the friction is zero and the force causes motion of a stationary mass

One of the equations of motion is required such as

v² = u² + 2 * a * s

Where

v = Final velocity = 5.93 m/s

u = Initial velocity = 0 m/s, object at rest

a = acceleration

s = distance moved = 32 meters

But v = Distance/Time = 32 m / 5.4 s = 5.93 m/s

Therefore

5.93² = 2*a*32

or a = 35.12 / 64 = 0.55 m/s²

Therefore Force F = Mass m * Acceleration a

Where mass m = 64 kg

Therefore F = 64 kg*0.55 m/s² = 35.12 N