Solving Interaction Forces Physics Problem: Magnitude & Direction

In summary, a 6.0-kg block rests on top of a 7.0-kg block on a horizontal table. The first problem is to find the force exerted by the 7.0-kg block on the 6.0-kg block using the formula F sub a and b = F sub b and a. The second problem is to find the force exerted by the 6.0-kg block on the 7.0-kg block, considering Newton's 3rd law and all the forces acting on the top block. It is determined that gravity is the main force acting on the top block, but there could also be other forces such as mass or friction. Ultimately, the force
  • #1
LaShortiie
4
0
Okay i have a physics problem that i really don't get...pliz help me!

A 6.0-kg block rests on top of a 7.0-kg, which rests on a horizontal table.

a What is the force (magnitude and direction) exerted by the 7.0-kg block on the 6.0-kg block?

i tried using the formula F sub a and b = F sub b and a
but my book really doesn't explain how to work out the problem...help!

bWhat is the force (magnitude and direction) exerted by the 6.0-kg block on the 7.0-kg block?
 
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  • #2
First, what can you say about those two forces? (Consider Newton's 3rd law.)

Second, consider all the forces acting on the top block. (What are they? Hint: There are two forces acting.) What must they add up to?
 
  • #3
I think that its gravity that is acting on the top block but i don't know what else
 
  • #4
LaShortiie said:
I think that its gravity that is acting on the top block but i don't know what else
What would happen to the 6kg block if the only force acting was gravity?
 
  • #5
it would put more force on the table? could the other force be either mass or friction?
 
  • #6
LaShortiie said:
I think that its gravity that is acting on the top block but i don't know what else
Since you are asked to find the force that the bottom block exerts on the top block (that's part a), that should tell you something! That's the second force acting on the top block.
 
  • #7
Its in the table pushing up the bottom block upwards so the other force would be the table
 

FAQ: Solving Interaction Forces Physics Problem: Magnitude & Direction

What are interaction forces in physics?

Interaction forces in physics refer to the forces that act upon an object when it comes into contact with another object. These forces can be either attractive or repulsive and are responsible for the motion and stability of objects.

How do you calculate the magnitude of an interaction force?

The magnitude of an interaction force can be calculated using Newton's Second Law of Motion, which states that force is equal to mass multiplied by acceleration (F=ma). In the case of interaction forces, the acceleration is caused by the contact between two objects and can be determined by measuring the change in velocity of the objects.

What factors affect the direction of an interaction force?

The direction of an interaction force is affected by the orientation of the two objects in contact and the type of force being exerted. For example, if two objects are in contact and one is pushing the other, the direction of the interaction force will be in the direction of the push.

How are interaction forces related to Newton's Third Law of Motion?

Newton's Third Law of Motion states that for every action, there is an equal and opposite reaction. This means that when two objects come into contact, the forces they exert on each other are equal in magnitude and opposite in direction. In other words, the interaction forces between the two objects are a result of the equal and opposite reactions of the objects.

Can interaction forces be balanced?

Yes, interaction forces can be balanced, meaning that they are equal in magnitude but opposite in direction. This can occur when two objects are in contact and exert equal and opposite forces on each other, resulting in a net force of zero. This can also occur when multiple forces act on an object, but their combined effect results in a net force of zero.

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