Two blocks, (Mass of block 1 = 2.3kg, Mass of block 2 = 1.2kg), are in contact on a frictionless table. If a horizontal force of 3.2N is applied to the larger block, what is the acceleration of the smaller block. Describe all external forces that are acting on the two blocks

To find the acceleration of the smaller block, we can apply Newton's second law of motion, which states that the net force acting on an object is equal to the mass of the object multiplied by its acceleration.

In this case, the net force acting on the system of the two blocks is the applied force of 3.2 N. The mass of the larger block is 2.3 kg.

We can assume that the blocks are in contact without any separation or slipping, so they are effectively connected. This means that the applied force also acts on the smaller block.

Let's denote the acceleration of the smaller block as 'a'. According to Newton's second law, the net force acting on the smaller block is its mass (1.2 kg) multiplied by its acceleration: F_net = m * a.

Considering the forces acting on the two blocks, we have the applied force acting on the larger block and transferred to the smaller block (T), and the force of contact (N) between the two blocks.

The force of contact (N) is equal in magnitude but opposite in direction to the force being applied to the larger block. Therefore, N = -3.2 N.

Since there is no friction between the blocks, the force of contact (N) is the only external force acting on the smaller block.

Now, let's write down the equations of motion for both blocks:

For the larger block: F_net = m * a (using the positive direction as the applied force direction)
3.2 N = 2.3 kg * a

For the smaller block: F_net = m * a (using the positive direction as the direction of acceleration 'a')
-3.2 N = 1.2 kg * a

Solving the equation for the smaller block, we get:
a = -3.2 N / 1.2 kg
a = -2.67 m/s^2

Therefore, the acceleration of the smaller block is -2.67 m/s^2, which indicates that it is moving in the opposite direction of the applied force. The negative sign represents the direction.

To summarize, the external forces acting on the two blocks are:
- A horizontal applied force of 3.2 N acting on the larger block
- A force of contact (N) between the two blocks, which is equal in magnitude but opposite in direction to the applied force.