Three Books (X, Y, and Z) Rest on a Table

question 51

Multiple Choice

Three books (X, Y, and Z) rest on a table. The weight of each book is indicated. The net force acting on book Y is:

• A) 4 N down
• B) 5 N up
• C) 9 N down
• D) 0 N
• E) none of these

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Definitions:

Res Ipsa Loquitur

A principle in tort law that allows plaintiffs to meet their burden of proof with circumstantial evidence when the nature of the accident is such that it implies negligence.

Negligent Conduct

Actions or failures to act that breach a duty of care and result in harm or damage to another party.

Proximate Cause

A legal concept referring to the primary cause of an injury or damage that is considered legally sufficient to hold someone responsible.

Superseding Cause

An intervening act or event that breaks the direct connection between the original wrongful act and the injury that occurred, relieving the original offender of liability.