Serway & Jewett — The Laws of Motion: Problem 43

In Example 5.7, we pushed on two blocks on a table. Suppose three blocks are in contact with one another on a frictionless, horizontal surface as shown in Figure P5.43. A horizontal force \(\vec{F}\) is applied to \(m_1\). Take \(m_1 = 2.00\text{ kg}\), \(m_2 = 3.00\text{ kg}\), \(m_3 = 4.00\text{ kg}\), and \(F = 18.0\text{ N}\). (a) Draw a separate free-body diagram for each block. (b) Determine the acceleration of the blocks. (c) Find the resultant force on each block. (d) Find the magnitudes of the contact forces between the blocks. (e) You are working on a construction project. A coworker is nailing up plasterboard on one side of a light partition, and you are on the opposite side, providing “backing” by leaning against the wall with your back pushing on it. Every hammer blow makes your back sting. The supervisor helps you put a heavy block of wood between the wall and your back. Using the situation analyzed in parts (a) through (d) as a model, explain how this change works to make your job more comfortable.