What is the force exerted on a 5-kilogram block suspended from a cord?

• A. Zero
• B. 25 N
• C. 50 N
• D. 100 N

Answer: (C)

To determine the force exerted on a 5-kilogram block suspended from a cord, it is important to consider the effects of gravity. The force acting on the block due to gravity can be calculated using Newton's second law of motion, which states that force equals mass times acceleration (F = m * a).

In this scenario, the mass of the block is 5 kilograms, and the acceleration due to gravity on Earth is approximately 9.8 meters per second squared (m/s²). Therefore, the gravitational force acting on the block can be calculated as follows:

F = m * a

F = 5 kg * 9.8 m/s²

F = 49 N

This rounds to approximately 50 N, which corresponds to the weight of the block when it is in equilibrium, meaning that it is hanging silently without moving. Hence, the force exerted on the block by the cord, which supports the weight of the block, must match the gravitational force acting downward. This is why the correct answer is that the force exerted on the block is 50 N.