Question

A single horizontal force F is applied to a block of mass $M_1$ which is in contact with another block of mass $M_2$ as shown in the figure. If the surfaces are frictionless, the force between the block is:

• A. $\frac{M_{1}F}{M_2}$
• B. $\frac{M_1{M}_{2}F}{M_1+M_3}$
• C. $\frac{M_{2}F}{M_1+M_2}$
• D. $\frac{M_{2}F}{M_1}$

Answer 1

Answer: (C)

$\frac{M_{2}F}{M_1+M_2}$

Let the acceleration of the whole system be $a$ and the normal force acting between the blocks be $N$.

Total mass of the system $M=M_1+M_2$

$\therefore$ Acceleration of the system $a=\frac{F}{M}=\frac{F}{M_1+M_2}$

Thus normal force between the blocks $N=M_{2}a=\frac{M_{2}F}{M_1+M_2}$