Two blocks of different mass are connected by a string. The system is accelerated across a smooth horizontal surface by a force supplied by a rubber band connected to the less massive block. The tension in the connecting string will be
A) greater than the force pulling the leading block.
B) the same as the force pulling the leading block.
C) less than the force pulling the leading block.
D) zero.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The tension in the string is less than the force pulling the leading block because the force must also accelerate the more massive block, resulting in some of the force being "used up" to overcome the inertia of the second block, leaving less force to be felt as tension in the string.

Two Blocks of Different Mass Are Connected by a String