Three Boxes Rest Side-By-Side on a Smooth, Horizontal Floor

question 47

Multiple Choice

Three boxes rest side-by-side on a smooth, horizontal floor. Their masses are 5.0 kg, 3.0 kg, and 2.0 kg, with the 3.0-kg mass in the center. A force of 50 N pushes on the 2.0-kg mass, which pushes against the other two masses. What is the contact force between the 5.0-kg mass and the 3.0-kg mass?

• A) 0 N
• B) 10 N
• C) 25 N
• D) 40 N
• E) 50 N

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Definitions:

Decision Tables

A tabular method for representing and analyzing logical relationships among variables and their possible outcomes.

State of Nature

A term often used in decision theory and statistics to describe scenarios or conditions that are beyond the control of decision-makers, such as market trends or natural disasters.

Maximin Criterion

A decision-making principle that suggests choosing the option with the greatest minimum payoff, particularly under uncertainty, to ensure the best worst-case outcome.