Physics

Problem

Three blocks of masses

1\,\text{kg}

(top),

2\,\text{kg}

(middle) and

3\,\text{kg}

(bottom) are stacked on a smooth horizontal surface. The coefficients of friction between any two contacting blocks are

\mu_s = 0.50

and

\mu_k = 0.40

. A horizontal force

F

is applied to the middle block. a. Determine the range of

F

for which all three blocks move together as a single body. b. If

F

exceeds this range, state which interface (top–middle or middle–bottom) will slip first.