Final answer:
The possible outcomes of the interaction between block X and block Y depend on the nature of their interaction. It can result in block X slowing down, coming to a stop, or continuing to travel at a constant speed.
Step-by-step explanation:
The possible outcomes of the interaction between block X and block Y as block X travels across a horizontal surface towards block Y depends on the nature of the interaction between them. There are a few possible scenarios:
- If block X and block Y are made of different materials and have different coefficients of friction, block X may experience a force of friction in the opposite direction of its motion. This would cause block X to slow down and eventually come to a stop.
- If block X and block Y have the same material and similar coefficients of friction, block X may experience a force of friction in the opposite direction of its motion. In this case, block X would also slow down, but the force of friction may not be strong enough to bring block X to a complete stop.
- If block X and block Y are made of materials that have low friction with each other, block X may experience very little friction and continue to travel at a relatively constant speed towards block Y.