Understanding Newton's 3rd Law: Finding Opposing Forces Between Two Boxes

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around understanding Newton's 3rd Law of Motion, specifically in the context of two boxes connected and being pulled. Participants explore the nature of opposing forces between the boxes and seek clarification on why these forces exist despite the application of a pulling force.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant expresses confusion about the opposing forces between two boxes when one is being pulled, questioning why these forces exist.
  • Another participant suggests that the box being pulled (box X) does not want to move, which necessitates box Y pulling it forward while simultaneously box X pulls back on box Y.
  • A participant seeks a visualization of the scenario, indicating a desire for a deeper understanding beyond just the application of the law.
  • Another reply indicates that if the opposing force were not present, the front box would accelerate faster, implying a relationship between the forces at play.
  • One participant acknowledges the explanation provided, indicating a resolution to their confusion.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants do not reach a consensus on the visualization of the forces involved, as some express confusion while others provide explanations. The discussion remains somewhat unresolved regarding the conceptual understanding of the opposing forces.

Contextual Notes

The discussion highlights limitations in visualization and understanding of Newton's 3rd Law in practical scenarios, particularly regarding the interaction between connected masses.

cam875
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I understand the law and can apply it to many situations except for one.

You are pulling a box weighing X kg attached by a connection which isn't loose or anything to another box weighing Y kg and you have to find out the strength of the opposing forces inbetween the boxes. Why is there opposing forces inside there, I always thought that if u are pulling the box than whatever is attracted to that matter you are pulling such as the connection and the other box is going to be pulled aslong as the force being applied is strong enough to move the mass and the attraction between all the matter is strong enough to hold together without breaking. So basically why are there opposing forces inbetween the boxes?
 
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Hi cam875! :smile:

Box X (at the back) doesn't want to move, so box Y has to pull it forwards, and box X is pulling box Y backwards :wink:
 
why is the box pulling the other box backwards? besides just using his law I like actually visualiziing what's happening, and I have been able to do that with every single example except for this one so far and its frustrating me lol.
 
'cos if it wasn't there, the front box would go faster :smile:
 
alright makes sense now thanks.
 

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