A small block of mass = 1kg is exerting a force from the left on an average-size
ID: 1461118 • Letter: A
Question
A small block of mass = 1kg is exerting a force from the left on an average-size block of mass = 2kg and the average-size block is exerting a force from the left on a large block of mass = 3kg. The small block is being pushed from the left by a force of 12 N. The three blocks move due to this force on a horizontal platform without friction. Find the acceleration of the three blocks and the forces exerted by the small block on the average-size block, and the force exerted by the average-size block on the large block, and the force exerted by the small block on the large block if there is one.
Explanation / Answer
External Force = 12 N
Total Mass of System = 1 + 2 + 3 = 6 Kg
Force = Mass * Acceleration
12 = 6 * a
a = 2 m/s^2
Acceleration of the three blocks, a = 2m/s^2
We know, Force = Mass * Acceleration -
Force exerted by the small block on the average-size block = (2+3) * 2 = 10 N
Force exerted by the average-size block on the large block = 3 * 2 = 6 N