Two Blocks: Force, Mass, and Acceleration

AI Thread Summary
The discussion centers on calculating the acceleration and forces between two blocks on a frictionless surface. Given a 1.0 kg block pushed by a 10.0 N force, the system's total mass is 3.0 kg, resulting in an acceleration of approximately 3.33 m/s². The force that block 1 exerts on block 2 is equal to the mass of block 2 multiplied by the acceleration, yielding a force of 6.67 N. Conversely, block 2 exerts an equal and opposite force of 6.67 N on block 1, in accordance with Newton's third law. The analysis emphasizes the importance of free body diagrams in solving for forces in such systems.
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Homework Statement



Two blocks sit directly next to one another on a frictionless surface. Block 1 has a mass of 1.0 kg and block 2 has a mass of 2.0 kg. A person pushes block 1 with a force of 10.0 N.

a) Determine the acceleration of the system
b) Determine the force that block 1 exerts on block 2.
c) Determine the force that block 2 exerts on block 1.

Homework Equations



f=ma

The Attempt at a Solution



a) 10=3(a)
a=10/3 m/s/s.

b and c?!
 
Physics news on Phys.org
Draw a F.B.D. of block 2.
You will find your answer.
 

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