two blocks of masses m1 and m2 (m1>m2) are placed on a frictionless table in contact with each other. A horizontal force of magnitude F is applied to the block of mass m1. if P is the magnitude of the contact force between the blocks, what are the net forces acting on m1 and m2? Assume that "to the right" is the positive direction
a) on m1: F+P on m2: -P
b) on m1: F-P on m2: +P
c) on m1: -P on m2: F+P
d) on m1: +P on m2: F-P
e) on m1: +P on m2: F+P
d) on m1: +P on m2: F-P
To determine the net forces acting on the blocks, let's analyze the situation.
Block m1 is subjected to a horizontal force F towards the right. Since there is no friction acting on the blocks, there are no additional horizontal forces acting on m1. So, the net force on m1 would be equal to F, directed towards the right.
As for block m2, it experiences a contact force P from block m1. Since block m2 is in contact with block m1, P acts in the opposite direction to the force applied on m1. Therefore, the net force on m2 would be -P, directed towards the left.
So, the correct answer is:
a) on m1: F + P
on m2: -P
The correct answer is:
a) on m1: F+P
on m2: -P