The Physics of Boxes with No Friction: 10N Push Test

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SUMMARY

In a frictionless environment, when three blocks weighing 20 kg each are pushed with a force of 10 N, all blocks will move to the right, receiving the full 10 N force. The person applying the force will experience a reaction force of 10 N in the opposite direction. This principle remains consistent even when the masses increase to 1 million kg, although the acceleration will decrease due to the higher mass. Understanding these dynamics is crucial for applying Newton's laws of motion effectively.

PREREQUISITES
  • Newton's laws of motion
  • Concept of frictionless surfaces
  • Basic understanding of force and mass
  • Acceleration calculations
NEXT STEPS
  • Study Newton's Second Law of Motion in detail
  • Explore the implications of frictionless environments in physics
  • Learn about acceleration calculations for varying masses
  • Investigate real-world applications of these principles in engineering
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Students preparing for physics exams, educators teaching mechanics, and anyone interested in understanding the fundamentals of force and motion in a frictionless context.

caljuice
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If there are 3 blocks weighing 20 kgs each and placed next to each other on a frictionless floor, and I exert 10 N, all 3 blocks will still move right? Do all the boxes receive a 10N push since there is no friction to reduce the force as it transfers? But do I only get pushed back 10N due to reaction force? Finally do the same concepts apply if the masses are 1million kgs? Thanks!
 
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caljuice said:
If there are 3 blocks weighing 20 kgs each and placed next to each other on a frictionless floor, and I exert 10 N, all 3 blocks will still move right? Do all the boxes receive a 10N push since there is no friction to reduce the force as it transfers? But do I only get pushed back 10N due to reaction force? Finally do the same concepts apply if the masses are 1million kgs? Thanks!

yes, all three blocks will move. All three blocks will also receive a 10 N force. You will also receive a 10 N reaction force. Yes, the same concepts apply to 1 million kg masses...the boxes will just have lower acceleration.
 
Alright, thanks. Quick response, I have my test tomorrow too. I got the concepts now. Good luck to me.
 

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