The exercise shows two identical blocks, $X$ and $Y$, each of mass $m$, in contact with each other on a frictionless horizontal surface. A horizontal force $F$ is applied to block $X$. The question asks which statement is true under these conditions:

1. Analysis of Statements:

   • Statement A: "X will exert a force of magnitude $F$ on Y."

     • This is incorrect because the force $F$ applied to block $X$ is used to accelerate both $X$ and $Y$, so the force exerted by $X$ on $Y$ would actually be less than $F$.

   • Statement B: "X will undergo an acceleration of $F/m$."

     • This is also incorrect. The combined mass of the two blocks $(2m)$ will accelerate together due to the force $F$. Therefore, the acceleration $a$ of both blocks is $a = \frac{F}{2m}$.

   • Statement C: "X will exert a force of $F/2$ on Y."

     • This is correct. Since both blocks accelerate at $\frac{F}{2m}$, the force that $X$ exerts on $Y$ is indeed $\frac{F}{2}$, which is the force required