A student applies the same constant horizontal force to four different blocks and…

PHYSICS · Single correct · A Level · Physics · Mechanics and materials · Mechanics and materials

Problem

A student applies the same constant horizontal force to four different blocks and records the following data. • Block 1: mass

1.0\,\text{kg}

, acceleration

4.0\,\text{m}\!\cdot\!\text{s}^{-2}

• Block 2: mass

2.0\,\text{kg}

, acceleration

2.0\,\text{m}\!\cdot\!\text{s}^{-2}

• Block 3: mass

3.0\,\text{kg}

, acceleration

1.3\,\text{m}\!\cdot\!\text{s}^{-2}

• Block 4: mass

4.0\,\text{kg}

, acceleration

1.0\,\text{m}\!\cdot\!\text{s}^{-2}

Which statement is most consistent with the relationship suggested by these results? (a) The acceleration is the same for all blocks regardless of mass. (b) The acceleration of a block is inversely proportional to its mass. (c) The acceleration of a block is inversely proportional to the square of its mass. (d) The acceleration of a block is directly proportional to its mass.

Related theory

Browse the problem library