Question

The mass of the block is 20 kg. Frictional forces between the block and the ice are negligible. The block has a wide cross-sectional area, so air resistance is acting on the block, but air resistance on the person is negligible. The person's shoes do not slip on the ice. As the person pushes the block, the person moves with the same constant speed as the block.

Using a dot as a particle model (representing the person), draw and label the forces (not components) exerted on the person. Each force must be represented by a distinct arrow starting on, and pointing away from, the dot.

Answer 1

The forces exerted on the person pushing the block are the force of gravity, the normal force exerted by the surface, and the force that the person exerts on the block.

Step-by-step explanation:

The forces exerted on the person pushing the block are:

1. The force of gravity, represented by an arrow pointing downwards.
2. The normal force exerted by the surface, represented by an arrow pointing upwards.
3. The force that the person exerts on the block, represented by an arrow pointing to the right.

Since the person and the block are moving with the same constant speed, the force of friction between the block and the ice must be equal in magnitude and opposite in direction to the force that the person exerts on the block.