Two blocks are in contact on a horizontal, frictionless table. Block 1 has a mass of 4.39 kg and block 2 has a mass of 2.59 kg. A horizontal force of magnitude 8.25 N is applied to the one of the blocks. Find the magnitude of the force between the blocks (a) if the given force is applied to the larger block and (b) if the given force is applied to the smaller block. Find the difference between your answers to (a) and (b) (in Newtons).

We're given the answer already, but I have no idea about the steps on how to solve it.

To solve this problem, we need to consider the concept of Newton's third law of motion, which states that for every action, there is an equal and opposite reaction. In this case, when a force is applied to one block, an equal and opposite force will be experienced by the other block.

Now, let's analyze the problem step by step:

Step 1: Identify the forces acting on each block.
For block 1:
- The applied force F (unknown direction)
- The force between the blocks F2 (opposite direction to F)

For block 2:
- The force between the blocks F1 (same direction as F)

Step 2: Apply Newton's third law of motion.
According to Newton's third law, the magnitude of F2 is equal to the magnitude of F1. So, the force between the blocks is the same regardless of which block we apply the force to.

Step 3: Calculate the force between the blocks.
We are given the magnitude of the applied force F as 8.25 N. Therefore, the magnitude of the force between the blocks (F1 or F2) is also 8.25 N.

Step 4: Calculate the difference between the answers to (a) and (b).
Since the magnitude of the force between the blocks is the same in both cases, the difference between the answers to parts (a) and (b) is zero (0) Newtons.

In summary, the magnitude of the force between the blocks, regardless of which block the force is applied to, is 8.25 N. So, there is no difference in the answers to parts (a) and (b).