# PS.2.2 Worked Example: Pushing Stacked Blocks

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Consider two blocks that are resting one on top of the other. The lower block has mass $$\displaystyle m_1$$ and is resting on a surface. The upper block has mass $$\displaystyle m_2<m_1$$ . Suppose the coefficient of static friction between the blocks is $$\displaystyle \mu _ s$$ . A horizontal force of magnitude $$\displaystyle F$$ is applied to block 1 as shhown.

The goal of this problem is to calculate the maximum value of $$\displaystyle F$$ with which the lower block can be pushed horizontally so that the two blocks move together without slipping?

(Part a) Draw in separate figures the free force body diagrams for blocks 1 and 2. Identify the Newton's 3rd Law pairs in the force diagrams.

(Part b) Consider the coordinates system with the +x-axis horizontal and to the right and the +y axis vertically upwards. Write down the x and y components of Newton's 2nd Law for each block.

## Worked Example - Stacked Blocks - Free Body Diagrams and Applying Newton's 2nd Law

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(Part c) How is the acceleration of each of the two blocks related when the blocks do not slip relative to each other?

(Part d) What is the maximum pushing force? Write your answer using some or all of the following: g, $$\displaystyle M_1$$, $$\displaystyle M_2$$,$$\displaystyle \mu _ k$$ and $$\displaystyle \mu _ s$$.

## Worked Example - Stacked Blocks - Solve for the Maximum Force

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(Part e) Why can't we choose blocks 1 and 2 together to be our system?

## Worked Example - Stacked Blocks - Choosing the System of 2 Blocks Together

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