The diagram above illustrates two boxes P and Q of masses 27.3 kg and 6.2 kg respectively on a smooth horizontal surface. If a force F of 150 N is applied to the combined forces, calculate the acceleration.
Attached Figure / Diagram
A
4.5 ms\(^{-2}\)
B
33.5 ms\(^{-2}\)
C
70 ms\(^{-2}\)
D
150 ms\(^{-2}\)
Verified Correct Answer: A.
Physical Principles & Numerical Solution
Total mass of the two boxes = 27.3 + 6.2 = 33.5kg
F = ma
a = \(\frac{\text{F}}{\text{m}}\) = \(\frac{150}{33.5}\) = 4.4776... ≈ 4.5 ms\(^{-2}\)
Source: WAEC / JAMB / NECO Classroom Archive (Record #72060)