Question

1. two objects with masses of 3 kg and 5 kg are pushed by equal forces. which has greater acceleration?

cannot determine
5 kg object
both have equal acceleration
3 kg object

Explanation:

Step1: Recall Newton's Second Law

Newton's second law states \( F = ma \), where \( F \) is force, \( m \) is mass, and \( a \) is acceleration. Rearranging for acceleration gives \( a=\frac{F}{m} \).

Step2: Analyze the given situation

We know the forces on both objects are equal (\( F_1 = F_2 = F \)) and their masses are \( m_1 = 3\,\text{kg} \) and \( m_2 = 5\,\text{kg} \). Using \( a=\frac{F}{m} \), for the same force \( F \), acceleration \( a \) is inversely proportional to mass \( m \) (i.e., smaller mass means greater acceleration). Since \( 3\,\text{kg}<5\,\text{kg} \), the \( 3\,\text{kg} \) object has a greater acceleration.

Answer:

3 kg object (the option corresponding to "3 kg object")