Discover the Acceleration of a Block on a Frictionless Surface

What is the acceleration of the block?

Two forces are applied to a 2.0-kilogram block on a frictionless horizontal surface. The forces are 1.5 m/s^2 to the right and 4.0 m/s^2 to the left. Determine the acceleration of the block based on the given data.

The acceleration of the block is -1.25 m/s^2 to the left.

The acceleration of an object can be determined by the net force acting on it and its mass. In this case, we have a 2.0-kilogram block on a frictionless horizontal surface with two forces applied to it: 1.5 m/s^2 to the right and 4.0 m/s^2 to the left.

To find the net force acting on the block, we need to subtract the force to the left from the force to the right.

Net force = Force to the right - Force to the left

Net force = 1.5 m/s^2 - 4.0 m/s^2

Net force = -2.5 m/s^2

The negative sign indicates that the net force is in the opposite direction of the force to the right. Using Newton's second law, we can calculate the acceleration of the block.

Acceleration = Net force / Mass

Acceleration = (-2.5 m/s^2) / (2.0 kg)

Acceleration = -1.25 m/s^2

Therefore, the acceleration of the block is 1.25 m/s^2 to the left. Understanding the concept of net force and mass is crucial in determining the acceleration of an object in a given scenario.