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AP Physics C: Mechanics
2.5 Newton’s Second Law
2.3 Newton’s Third Law
2.2 Forces and Free-Body Diagrams
IntermediateMCQMathematicalConceptual19.6k
Side view of the three blocks in Scenario 1 and Scenario 2.
Side view of the three blocks in Scenario 1 and Scenario 2.
Three blocks of masses \(m_1 = m\), \(m_2 = 2m\), and \(m_3 = 3m\) are placed in contact in numerical order along a horizontal, frictionless surface. In Scenario 1, a constant horizontal force of magnitude \(F_0\) is applied to block 1 directed to the right, producing contact force magnitudes \(F_{12}\) (between blocks 1 and 2) and \(F_{23}\) (between blocks 2 and 3). In Scenario 2, the blocks remain in the same order, but the force of magnitude \(F_0\) is applied to block 3 directed to the left, producing contact force magnitudes \(F'_{23}\) (between blocks 2 and 3) and \(F'_{12}\) (between blocks 1 and 2). Which of the following correctly ranks the magnitudes of the contact forces?

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