(A) Find the magnitude of the acceleration of the system. Conceptualize Conceptu

Question

(A) Find the magnitude of the acceleration of the system.

Conceptualize Conceptualize the situation by using figure (a) and realize that both blocks must experience the same acceleration because they are in contact with each other and remain in contact throughout the motion.

Categorize We categorize this problem as one involving a particle under a net force because a force is applied to a system of blocks and we are looking for the acceleration of the system.
Analyze First model the combination of two blocks as a single particle. Apply Newton's second law to the combination (Use the following as necessary: F, m1, and m2.):
?Fx = F = (m1 + m2) ax
(1) ax = ?
Finalize The acceleration given by Equation (1) is the same as that of a single object of mass m1 +m2 and subject to the same force.

Explanation / Answer

ax = F/(m1+m2)

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