Final answer:
To determine the range of mass m2 for which the system is in equilibrium, we need to consider the forces acting on the system. The system is in equilibrium when the net force acting on it is zero. Using Newton's second law and considering the gravitational force and normal force, we can find the range of m2 to be m2 = 2 kg.
Step-by-step explanation:
To determine the range of mass m2 for which the system is in equilibrium, we need to consider the forces acting on the system. In this case, we have a metal ball with mass m = 2 kg. The system is in equilibrium when the net force acting on it is zero. Since the ball is at rest, the gravitational force pulling it down is balanced by the normal force exerted by the surface below. We can set up an equation using Newton's second law to find the range of m2:
ΣF = m*a
Since the system is in equilibrium, the acceleration is zero. So, we have:
ΣF = 0
Since the only forces acting on the system are the gravitational force and the normal force, we can write:
m*g - m2*g = 0
where g is the acceleration due to gravity. Solving for m2:
m2 = m*g/g
Substituting the values, m = 2 kg and g = 9.8 m/s²:
m2 = 2*9.8/9.8
m2 = 2
Therefore, the range of mass m2 for which the system is in equilibrium is m2 = 2 kg.