Is the Normal Force on m2 Affected by Vertical Acceleration in Different Cases?

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the normal force experienced by mass m2 in two different scenarios involving vertical acceleration. In case 1, m2 does not exert a normal force on the wall due to the absence of contact pressure. In case 2, m2 experiences a normal force as it encounters a pseudo-force directed to the left, which results in contact with the wall. The vertical acceleration does not influence the normal force between m2 and the wall in either case.

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  • Understanding of Newton's laws of motion
  • Familiarity with the concept of normal force
  • Knowledge of pseudo-forces in non-inertial reference frames
  • Basic principles of vertical acceleration effects on forces
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Homework Statement
Suppose two cases:
1) The room shown in the picture is static, and so are the blocks in it.
2) The room is being accelerated to the right, and the blocks are static with respect to each other
Relevant Equations
Newton's equations
I want you to tell me if I'm right

For 1), does ##m_2## feel a normal force? Because I don't think so, since it isn't pushing the wall.

For 2), ##m_2## suffers a normal force because it feels a pseudo-force to the left and so it pushes the wall
 

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I think you are correct about the normal force on m2 for both cases. The vertical acceleration is different for case 1 & 2, but I don't think that affects the normal force between m2 and the wall.
 
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