Two blocks, 1 and 2, are connected by a rope R1 of negligible mass. A second rope R2, also of negligible mass, is tied to block 2. A force is applied to R2 and the blocks accelerate forward. Is the magnitude of the force exerted by the rope R1 on block 1 larger, smaller, or equal to the magnitude of the force exerted by R2 on block 2?

If there is no friction, the net force is the tension in the second rope. Let’s assume the mass of each block is 2 kg, and the tension in the second rope is 8 N.

8 = 4 * a

a = 2 m/s^2

Since there is friction, the tension in the first rope is causing the first block to accelerate. To determine tension, use the following equation.

F = m * a

T = 2 * 2 = 4 N

If there is no friction and both blocks have the same mass, the tension in the second rope will be less than the tension in the first rope. I hope this helps you. If the masses are different, you can use this method to determine the tension in the first rope.