The figure above shows a truck pulling three crates across a rough road. Which of the following shows the directions of all the horizontal forces acting on crate 2 ?
The Correct Answer and Explanation is :
In the scenario where a truck pulls three crates across a rough road, the horizontal forces acting on crate 2 are as follows:
- Force from the truck (T₁): The truck applies a forward force on crate 1, which is transmitted through the crates. This force is directed to the right.
- Force from crate 1 (T₂): Crate 1 exerts a backward force on crate 2 due to Newton’s third law. This force is directed to the left.
- Force from crate 3 (T₃): Crate 3 exerts a forward force on crate 2, transmitted through the crates. This force is directed to the right.
- Frictional force (f₂): The rough road exerts a frictional force on crate 2, opposing its motion. This force is directed to the left.
Therefore, the horizontal forces acting on crate 2 are:
- To the right: Force from the truck (T₁) and force from crate 3 (T₃).
- To the left: Force from crate 1 (T₂) and frictional force (f₂).
The net force on crate 2 is the vector sum of these forces. If the crate moves to the right, the rightward forces must be greater than the leftward forces. If the crate moves to the left, the leftward forces must be greater than the rightward forces.
Understanding these forces is crucial in analyzing the motion of objects in contact and the effects of friction in real-world scenarios.