Three blocks of masses 2 kg, 3 kg and 5 kg are kept in contact in that order on a smooth horizontal surface. A horizontal force of 40 N is applied on the 2 kg block. The contact force between the 3 kg and 5 kg blocks is:
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Question

Three blocks of masses 2 kg, 3 kg and 5 kg are kept in contact in that order on a smooth horizontal surface. A horizontal force of 40 N is applied on the 2 kg block. The contact force between the 3 kg and 5 kg blocks is:

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G1 Physics · Accepted Answer

Total mass = 10 kg, so acceleration a = 40/10 = 4 m/s². The contact force between 3 kg and 5 kg must accelerate the 5 kg block: N = 5×4 = 20 N.