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AP Physics C: Mechanics
2.7 Kinetic and Static Friction
2.5 Newton’s Second Law
2.3 Newton’s Third Law
2.1 Systems and Center of Mass
AdvancedMCQMathematicalConceptual16k
A horizontal line represents a tabletop. Resting on this line from left to right are three rectangular blocks labeled m_1, m_2, and m_3, with dimensions indicating m_1 is smallest, m_2 is intermediate, and m_3 is largest. A horizontal line segment labeled Cord 1 connects the right edge of m_1 to the left edge of m_2. A second horizontal line segment labeled Cord 2 connects the right edge of m_2 to the left edge of m_3. A single horizontal arrow points to the right from the right edge of m_3 and is labeled F. No other labels, lines, text, or axes appear.
Three blocks connected in series by two cords and pulled to the right by force \(F\).
Three blocks of masses \(m_1\), \(m_2\), and \(m_3\) are connected in series on a rough horizontal table by two taut, light cords: Cord 1 connects Block 1 to Block 2, and Cord 2 connects Block 2 to Block 3.

A constant horizontal pulling force of magnitude \(F\) is applied to Block 3 to the right, causing the entire assembly to accelerate across the table, where the coefficient of kinetic friction between each block and the table is a uniform value \(\mu\).

A student analyzes the assembly to determine the tension \(T_2\) in Cord 2.

Which of the following correctly gives \(T_2\) in terms of the given quantities, and explains why analyzing the two-block subsystem of Blocks 1 and 2 allows \(T_2\) to be determined without calculating the tension \(T_1\) in Cord 1?

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