Question

blocks a and b of masses m and 3m, respectively, are on a horizontal surface of negligible friction. a horizontal force fa is exerted on block a, as shown. if the force exerted by block b on block a has a magnitude f, the magnitude of fa is

Answer 1

The magnitude of the horizontal force exerted on block a is equal to the magnitude of the force exerted by block b on block a.

Step-by-step explanation:

In this scenario, block a with mass m is being pushed by a horizontal force Fa. Block b, with mass 3m, exerts a force F on block a. Based on Newton's third law, the magnitude of the force exerted by block b on block a is equal to the magnitude of the force exerted by block a on block b.

Therefore, the magnitude of Fa is equal to the magnitude of F.