Task id16425

A prism of mass M, the cross section of which is a right triangle with an angle a = 30°, can slide along a horizontal plane, resting on it with its smaller face (Fig.). A ball of mass m = 100 kg was placed between the inclined face of the prism and a wall inclined from the vertical at an angle b = 30°. What horizontal force must be applied to the vertical wall of the prism to stop the prism from sliding along the horizontal plane? Ignore friction. What will change if a ball of the same mass has a smaller diameter? What will change if the mass of the prism cannot be neglected?