Question

Two blocks of masses 8 kg and 2 kg respectively lie on a smooth horizontal surface in contact with one other. They are pushed by a horizontally applied force of 15 N. Calculate the force exerted on the 2 kg mass.

Answer 1

Given:
m₁ = 8 kg, m₂ = 2 kg, F = 15 N
F = mtotal, F = (m₁ + m₂) a = (8 + 2) a = 10 a
15 = 10 a

⇒ a = `15/10` = `3/2` ms^-2

Force exerted by mass of 8 kg

F = m₁ a = 8 x `3/2` = 12 N.