The normal force exerted by the lake surface is equal to the gravitational force acting on the block of ice. The gravitational force can be calculated using the equation:
\[ F_{\text{gravity}} = m \cdot g \]
where:
- \( m \) is the mass of the block of ice (55.0 kg),
- \( g \) is the acceleration due to gravity (approximately 9.8 m/s²).
\[ F_{\text{gravity}} = 55.0 \, \text{kg} \times 9.8 \, \text{m/s}^2 \]
Calculate \( F_{\text{gravity}} \) to find the normal force exerted by the lake surface on the block of ice.
