A 72 N force accelerates mass m1 by 5.0 m/s^2. The same force acts on another mass m2. What acceleration will the same force impart to the two masses when they are joined together?

Answer 1

F = ma, so a = F/m

a1 = 72/m1
a2 = 72/(m1+m2)

not sure whether the "same force" means the same 72N force, or another force of equal size.

If the latter, then both forces acting together would impart an acceleration of

(72+72)/(m1+m2)

Answer 2

Answer