How Does the Tension in a Cord Between Two Masses Compare to an Applied Force?

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In the discussion, two bodies, P and Q, are connected by a cord on a frictionless surface, with an applied force F on Q. The tension in the cord, T, must account for both masses, leading to the conclusion that T is less than F but not zero. After analyzing the free body diagrams (FBDs), it is confirmed that the correct answer is C. The initial assumption that T could be greater than F was corrected through further reasoning. The final consensus is that the tension in the cord is indeed less than the applied force.
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Homework Statement



Two bodies "P" and "Q" are on a frictionless horizontal surface are connected by a light cord. The mass of "P" is greater than that of "Q." A horizontal force "F" is applied to "Q" as shown below, acceleration the bodies to the right. The magnitude of the force "F" exerted by the connecting cord on body "P" will be:

A. Greater than F
B. Zero
C. Less than F but not zero
D. Equal to F

Homework Equations



F = ma?
I drew a picture.

The Attempt at a Solution



I thought the answer was "A" because the force has to account for mass "P" AND mass "Q."
 

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Let The Tension in the connecting cord of P and Q be T. Now draw the FBDs. I think the answer should be C.
 
vivekrai said:
Let The Tension in the connecting cord of P and Q be T. Now draw the FBDs. I think the answer should be C.

You are right; the answer IS C. I was thinking of the force in front of "Q."
 
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