Force, Mass, & Acceleration: Solving the Puzzle

AI Thread Summary
A force acting on a 2 kg mass produces an acceleration of 3 m/s², leading to a calculated force of 6 N. When this force is applied to a 1 kg mass, it results in an acceleration of 6 m/s², and for a 4 kg mass, the acceleration is 1.5 m/s². The discussion highlights the use of Newton's second law, which states that force equals mass times acceleration (F = m × a). A participant expresses initial confusion about the formulas but gains clarity through the explanation. The conversation concludes with a sense of relief and understanding regarding the problem-solving process.
softball1394
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1. A force acts on a 2 kg mass and gives it an acceleration of 3 m/s^2. What acceleration is produced by the same force when acting on a mass of (a) 1 kg? (b) 4 kg? (c) How large is the force?
Answers: (a) 6 m/s^2 (b) 1.5 m/s^2 (c) 6 N




2. -



3. I can't figure out what formula to use and, thus, how to show work. I'm in 11th grade and just start AP Physics two weeks ago. Let's just say I'm extremely confused. Thanks for the help! :)
 
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What law relates force, mass, and acceleration?
 
I'm pretty sure it's Newton's second law.
 
softball1394 said:
I'm pretty sure it's Newton's second law.
Exactly! That's all you need to solve this problem.
 
so would it be...
f = m x a
f = 2 x 3
f = 6

(a)
f= m x a
6= 1 x a
a = 6

(b)
f= m x a
6= 4 x a
a= 1.5

(c)
f= 6N

Oh, wow. That was a lot easier than I thought ahah. Thanks!
 
Looks like you got it. :approve:
 
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