The figure provided shows a hand pushing a 12.0 kg block. The two blocks, 12.0 kg and 26.1 kg, are attached to a string and move along a frictionless surface. Which of the following is true? Assume the string to be massless.
Hmmm. Something is missing.
To determine which of the given options is true, we need to analyze the forces acting on the system.
- Initially, the hand applies a force to push the 12.0 kg block.
- Because the blocks are connected by a string, there is tension in the string that acts on both blocks.
- Since the surface is frictionless, there is no friction force acting on the blocks.
Let's examine the options:
1. The tension in the string is greater on the 12.0 kg block.
2. The tension in the string is greater on the 26.1 kg block.
3. The tension in the string is the same on both blocks.
4. The tension in the string cannot be determined.
To determine the correct answer, let's consider Newton's second law, which states that the net force acting on an object is equal to the mass of the object multiplied by its acceleration:
F_net = ma
Since both blocks are on a frictionless surface and are connected by a string, they must have the same acceleration. Therefore, their net forces must be equal:
F_net_12kg = F_net_26.1kg
Now, let's consider the forces acting on the system. Only the hand exerts a force on the 12.0 kg block, so the net force on this block is given by:
F_net_12kg = F_hand
On the other hand, the 26.1 kg block experiences the force due to the hand and the tension in the string. Hence, the net force on this block is given by:
F_net_26.1kg = F_hand + Tension
Since both net forces are equal, we can conclude that:
F_hand = F_hand + Tension
Simplifying this equation, we find:
Tension = 0
This means that the tension in the string is zero. Therefore, option 3 is correct:
The tension in the string is the same on both blocks.