Final answer:
To answer the physics question about the force between two blocks, we use the coefficient of kinetic friction to first determine the total friction and then the total acceleration of the system. This allows us to calculate the force exerted on the 7.2kg block by the 6.6 kg block.
Step-by-step explanation:
The student is asking about the force exerted on one block by another block in a system of three blocks being pushed across a rough surface. First, we must find the total acceleration of the system using the given force and subtract the force of friction. Since the coefficient of kinetic friction is given as 0.16 and the blocks are moving, we use the formula:
F = ma where F is the force exerted, m is the total mass, and a is the acceleration.
The force of friction (f_k) for each block is f_k = μk N, where μk is the coefficient of kinetic friction and N is the normal force which is equal to the gravitational force on each block (mg). Once the total friction and mass are considered, the net force and therefore the total acceleration of the system can be determined.
To find the force on the 7.2kg block by the 6.6kg block, we need the acceleration and then use Newton’s second law (F = m a) for the 7.2kg block alone. This calculation excludes the force of friction for the 7.2kg block as it’s being exerted by the 6.6kg block.