- #1
AryRezvani
- 67
- 0
Homework Statement
Two blocks of masses m1 and m2, with m1 > m2, are placed in contact with each other on a frictionless, horizontal surface. A constant horizontal force is applies to m1.
a) find the magnitude of the acceleration
b) determine the magnitude of the contact force between the two blocks.
Homework Equations
ƩF =ma
The Attempt at a Solution
Well, for a), because you are simply finding the magnitude of the acceleration of both particles, you can combine both masses and apply the above formula.
ƩF =(m1+m2)a
ax=F/(m1+m2).
Regarding b), I understand these particles need to be modeled individually, but how exactly would I do so.
My main issue is understanding the force diagrams drawn. Let's just say for example... M1.
M1 has mg acting upon it, and N pushing up. There is a force pushing the object to the right, but there is also a force labeled as P21. Could someone clear some of this up for me?
I don't even know anymore, so frustrated by the lack of teaching skill with this professor. Perhaps somebody could throw in some tips on understanding physics? -_-