- #1
Briann
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- 0
Homework Statement
Three boxes rest side-by-side on a smooth, horizontal floor. Their masses are 5.0 kg, 3.0 kg, and 2.0 kg, with the 3.0-kg mass in the center. A force of 50 N pushes on the 5.0-kg mass, which pushes against the other two masses. What is the contact force between the 3.0-kg mass and the 2.0 kg mass?
a) 25 N
b) 10 N
c) 40 N
d) 0 N
Homework Equations
Maybe F = m a?
The Attempt at a Solution
[ 5 kg ] [ 3 kg ] [ 2 kg ]
I would think that gravity would diminish the applied force of 50 N.
Fg = m g
Fg = 5 kg * 10 m / s^2
Fg = 50 N
So the 50 N force would be subtracted from the applied force of 50 N, leaving 0 N, right?
I'm confused. Can someone help me?
Thank you!