Two blocks and of masses and respectively are kept in contact on a smooth horizontal…
PHYSICS · Subjective · AP · Physics 1: Algebra-based · Force and Translational Dynamics · Force and Translational Dynamics
Problem
Two blocks A and B of masses 4kg and 2kg respectively are kept in contact on a smooth horizontal surface. Block B is in contact with a vertical wall. A horizontal force P is applied to block A pressing the system against the wall. The coefficient of static friction between block B and the wall is 0.40. The contact surface between the two blocks is smooth.
(i) Draw separate free-body diagrams for blocks A and B.
(ii) Treating each block as a system in equilibrium, write the force balance equation(s) along the horizontal line for each block.
(iii) Calculate the minimum value of P required to keep both blocks at rest.
(iv) Find the magnitude of the contact force exerted by block A on block B under this condition.