What Was the Mass of the Original Stack of Books?

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SUMMARY

The problem involves calculating the mass of an original stack of books on a frictionless surface subjected to a force F. Initially, the stack accelerates at 4 m/s², and after adding a 9 kg book, the acceleration decreases to 2.5 m/s². By applying Newton's second law (F = ma), the original mass can be determined using the equations of motion and the known forces acting on the system.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of Newton's second law of motion
  • Basic knowledge of acceleration and force
  • Familiarity with mass and its units (kilograms)
  • Ability to manipulate algebraic equations
NEXT STEPS
  • Review Newton's second law of motion in detail
  • Practice problems involving force, mass, and acceleration
  • Explore the concept of frictionless surfaces in physics
  • Learn about the implications of adding mass to a system on acceleration
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Students studying physics, particularly those focusing on mechanics, as well as educators looking for practical examples of Newton's laws in action.

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Homework Statement



A stack of books rests on a level frictionless surface. A force F acts on the stack, and it accelerates at 4 m/s2. A 9 kg book is then added to the stack. The same force is applied, and now the stack accelerates at 2.5 m/s2. What was the mass in kg of the original stack?


Homework Equations



KE = 1/2mv^2
W = FD


The Attempt at a Solution


I don't even know where to begin with this problem. Neither of the two equations is doable because I'm lacking necessary information, and that's all that's in the textbook except for Hooke's Law.
 
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