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PHYSICS, M2 2020 VCE 9-10 MC

Two blocks of mass 5 kg and 10 kg are placed in contact on a frictionless horizontal surface, as shown in the diagram below. A constant horizontal force, , is applied to the 5 kg block.
 
 


 

Which one of the following statements is correct?

  1. The net force on each block is the same.
  2. The acceleration experienced by the 5 kg block is twice the acceleration experienced by the 10 kg block.
  3. The magnitude of the net force on the 5 kg block is half the magnitude of the net force on the 10 kg block.
  4. The magnitude of the net force on the 5 kg block is twice the magnitude of the net force on the 10 kg block.

 

If the force has a magnitude of 250 N, what is the work done by the force in moving the blocks in a straight line for a distance of 20 m?

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Show Worked Solution

Using Newton’s second Law:  .

→ The blocks will experience the same acceleration.

→ Both blocks will have the same force to mass ratio. Since the 5 kg block is half the mass of the 10 kg block, it will experience half the magnitude of the net force as the 10 kg block.

♦ Mean mark 49%.