Question

A block of mass $M$ is pulled along a horizontal frictionless surface by a rope of mass $m$. If a force $F$ is applied at one end of the rope, the force which the rope exerts on the block is:

• A. F/(M+m)
• B. F
• C. FM/(m+M)
• D. 0

Answer 1

The correct option is C FM/(m+M)


Acceleration of block and rope assembly in horizontal direction will be equal to $F/M(m+M)$.
Free body diagram of block M is
Equation of motion in horizontal direction is $T$ = $Ma$
Subsituting value of $a$,
$T$=$MF/M(m+M)$
Hence rope will apply $FM/M(m+M)$ force on block of mass $M$.