Finding the Force on Block 1 by Block 2: A Homework Problem

Click For Summary

Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around a physics problem involving three blocks with different masses and the forces acting on them. The original poster seeks to determine the force exerted on block 1 by block 2, given the masses and a diagram referenced in the thread.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Assumption checking, Problem interpretation

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants explore the relationship between the net force acting on block 1 and the forces applied to it. There are attempts to clarify the forces involved, particularly the role of the force exerted by block 2 on block 1.

Discussion Status

Participants have engaged in a back-and-forth regarding the calculations and interpretations of the forces at play. Some guidance has been offered, particularly in understanding how the net force is derived from the applied forces. However, there remains some confusion about the origin of the 6.22 N force and its implications.

Contextual Notes

There is an indication of uncertainty regarding the setup of the problem and the forces acting on the blocks, particularly in relation to the net force calculations. The original poster expresses difficulty in connecting their calculations to the expected answer.

mybrohshi5
Messages
365
Reaction score
0

Homework Statement



http://www.public.asu.edu/~gbadams/f06/F424.gif

Block1 = 2kg
Block2 = 3kg
Block3 = 4kg

What is the force on block 1 by block 2

Homework Equations



F=ma

The Attempt at a Solution



i know this is easy but i can't figure it out.

i found the acceleration of the 3 blocks

8=9a
a=0.889

i know the net force on block 1 is 0.889(2kg) = 1.78

I know the answer is 6.22N but i am not sure how to find it.
any help would be great.

thank you
 
Physics news on Phys.org
"i know the net force on block 1 is 0.889(2kg) = 1.78"

Very good. You know that a force of 8 N acts to the first block. So what other force should be present to make the net force 1.78 N?

ehild
 
a 6.22N force should be present to add to the 1.78N net force to equal the 8N force in the opposite direction so they cancel out to zero correct?
 
No. 8 N - 6.22 N = 1.78 N causes 0.889 m/s^2 acceleration of the first block. Where comes this 6.22 N come from?

ehild
 
"where comes this 6.22 N come from?"

i do not quite get what you are asking here?

i understand that Fnet = Force applied + (force of block 2 on block 1)
1.78N = 8N + x

solve for x to be -6.22N or just 6.22N to the left and that is the force on block 1 by block 2
 
Last edited:
OK. You solved the problem.
 
Thank you for your help and explanations :)
 

Similar threads

Replies
13
Views
3K
Replies
2
Views
2K
  • · Replies 6 ·
Replies
6
Views
2K
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
3K
  • · Replies 9 ·
Replies
9
Views
2K
Replies
15
Views
3K
  • · Replies 6 ·
Replies
6
Views
2K
Replies
1
Views
3K
  • · Replies 11 ·
Replies
11
Views
3K
  • · Replies 33 ·
2
Replies
33
Views
2K