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F = ma (11–17)
Dynamics
FMA-2013-11 · 2013 F = ma (AAPT)

2013 F = ma Exam — Question 11

11. A right-triangular wooden block of mass M is at rest on a table, as shown in figure. Two smaller wooden cubes, both with mass m, initially rest on the two sides of the larger block. As all contact surfaces are frictionless, the smaller cubes start sliding down the larger block while the block remains at rest. What is the normal force from the system to the table? α β 90 m m M
Source: Question 11, 2013 F = ma Exam, © 2013 American Association of Physics Teachers (AAPT) and the U.S. Physics Team. Adapted by PhysicsTrainer: reformatted into a separate question and answer choices for online multiple-choice practice; any shared setup from nearby questions is repeated here. Not affiliated with or endorsed by AAPT or the U.S. Physics Team.