Question

four boxes are lifted straight up from the ground to a shelf. each box has a different mass, as shown in the table.
masses of four boxes

box	mass (kilograms)
m	10
n	3.5
o	5

which box requires the smallest force to lift it off the ground?
a l
b m
c n
d o

Explanation:

Step1: Recall the relationship between mass and force

To lift an object, the force needed is related to its weight, and weight is proportional to mass (since \( F = mg \), where \( g \) is the acceleration due to gravity, a constant). So, a smaller mass means a smaller force is needed.

Step2: Compare the masses of the boxes

We have the masses: Box L: \( 4.5 \) kg, Box M: \( 10 \) kg, Box N: \( 3.5 \) kg, Box O: \( 5 \) kg.

Comparing these values: \( 3.5 < 4.5 < 5 < 10 \). So Box N has the smallest mass.

Answer:

C. N