How Does Mass Affect Acceleration on a Frictionless Surface?

AI Thread Summary
The discussion revolves around determining the acceleration of an object on a frictionless surface when a force F0 is applied. The initial condition states that the object accelerates at 20 m/s², but the user is confused about how to solve the problem without knowing the mass. A helpful suggestion is made to treat the mass as a variable 'm' and proceed with the calculations, noting that the mass will cancel out in the final equations. This approach allows for the determination of acceleration regardless of the specific mass value. The conversation emphasizes the importance of understanding the relationship between force, mass, and acceleration in physics.
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Homework Statement



A force F0 causes an acceleration of 20 m/s2 when it acts on an object of mass m sliding on a frictionless surface. Find the magnitude of the acceleration of the same object in the circumstances shown in each figure below.

Homework Equations



I cannot figure out how to do this problem without knowing the mass. Can anyone help?

The Attempt at a Solution



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Welcome to PF!

a18c18 said:
I cannot figure out how to do this problem without knowing the mass. Can anyone help?

Hi a18c18! Welcome to PF! :smile:

Hint: Just call the mass m, and do all the equations as usual …

you'll find that you can cancel the m's in the end! :smile:
 

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