A wooden block rests on a horizontal frictionless table
PHYSICS · Multi-part · AP · Physics 1: Algebra-based · Force and Translational Dynamics · Force and Translational Dynamics
Problem
A 3.0kg wooden block rests on a horizontal frictionless table. A person’s hand pushes horizontally on the block with a constant force of 15N for 0.80s. The hand stays in contact with the block the entire time, and no other horizontal forces act on the block.
(1) Draw separate free-body diagrams for (i) the block and (ii) the hand while the push occurs. Clearly label each force and identify the object exerting it.
(2) Determine the magnitude of the acceleration of the block while it is being pushed.
(3) Calculate the magnitude of the force exerted by the block on the hand during the push, and state the physical principle that supports your calculation.
(4) After the hand loses contact with the block, describe the subsequent horizontal motion of the block and explain your reasoning.