Question

steven slides down a fire pole.
steven weighs 1,000 newtons. the
friction force between steven and
the pole is 250 newtons.

complete the sentence.
when steven slides down the fire pole, the magnitude of his velocity ________.
increases decreases does not change

Explanation:

Step1: Identify downward force

The downward force is Steven's weight: $F_{down} = 1000\ \text{N}$

Step2: Identify upward force

The upward force is friction: $F_{up} = 250\ \text{N}$

Step3: Calculate net force

Net force acts downward: $F_{net} = F_{down} - F_{up} = 1000 - 250 = 750\ \text{N}$

Step4: Relate net force to velocity

A net downward force causes acceleration in the downward direction, so velocity magnitude increases.

Answer:

increases