Chapter 6, Problem 45A

After learning why objects of different mass have the same acceleration in free fall, Erik wonders if objects tied to equal lengths of string would swing together in unison. Lisa wonders if objects of different masses would slide at equal speeds down a friction-free inclined plane. What is your thinking on these hypotheses?

To determine

To check: The correct option between E and L.

Answer to Problem 45A

Both are correct.

Explanation of Solution

Introduction: If there is no friction or resistance on any object, then it will move smoothly either forward and backward or up and down. But, if objects are falling without any force applied then the gravitational force will be applied on every object equally irrespective of their masses.

The force of inertia is not confined to free fall. When objects of different masses swing in the gravity, then equally acceleration due to gravity will be applied on every object tied to equal length of the string.

When there is no resistance force (i.e. Friction Force), the objects will move smoothly on the inclined plane. It doesn’t matter if they have different mass, they will move with equal speed.

Conclusion: Equal acceleration due to gravity will be applied when different conditions are applied to objects of different mass. Hence, the arguments of E and L both are correct.