Question

A wedge with mass m rests on a frictionless surface. What is the acceleration of the wedge when a horizontal force is applied?

A) Zero acceleration
B) g/2
C) g
D) 2g

Answer 1

The acceleration of the wedge when a horizontal force is applied on a frictionless surface is zero.

Step-by-step explanation:

The acceleration of the wedge when a horizontal force is applied can be determined using Newton's second law of motion, which states that the force exerted on an object is equal to its mass multiplied by its acceleration (F = ma).

1. Since the surface is frictionless, there is no frictional force acting on the wedge.
2. The only force acting on the wedge is the horizontal force applied.
3. Therefore, the acceleration of the wedge is directly proportional to the applied force and inversely proportional to its mass.

So, the correct answer is A) Zero acceleration.