Final answer:
The mass of the right block must be equal to the mass of the left block in order for the two blocks to remain stationary on frictionless surfaces.
Step-by-step explanation:
In order for the two blocks to remain stationary, the net force on the system of blocks must be zero. Since the surface is frictionless, the only forces acting on the blocks are their weights. The weight of an object is given by the formula weight = mass x acceleration due to gravity. Therefore, the weight of the left block is m₁g and the weight of the right block is m₂g. For the net force to be zero, the weight of the left block must be equal to the weight of the right block:
m₁g = m₂g
Since the acceleration due to gravity is the same for both blocks, it cancels out:
m₁ = m₂
Therefore, the mass of the right block must be equal to the mass of the left block. Given that m₁ = 2.0 kg, the mass of the right block must also be 2.0 kg.