Question

A horizontal force 10 N is applied to a block A as shown in figure. The mass of blocks A and B are 2 kg and 3 kg, respectively. The blocks slide over a frictionless surface. The force exerted by block A on block B is ______.

Options

• 6 N

• 10 N

• zero

• 4 N

Answer 1

A horizontal force 10 N is applied to a block A as shown in figure. The mass of blocks A and B are 2 kg and 3 kg, respectively. The blocks slide over a frictionless surface. The force exerted by block A on block B is 6 N.

Explanation:

Given: Total mass (M) = 2 kg + 3 kg = 5 kg

Applied force (F) = 10 N

Using Newton’s second law:

a = F/M

= 10/5

= 2 m/s²

The force exerted by block A on block B (F_AB) is the only horizontal force causing block B to accelerate. Applying Newton's second law specifically to block B:

F_AB = m_B × a

= 3 × 2

= 6 N

∴ The force exerted by block A on block B is 6 N.