Question
Two bodies of masses M and m are placed in contact with each other on frictionless surface. Does the contact force depend upon the body on which force is applied? Explain.
Solution
Yes, contact force depends upon the body on which force is applied.

Let us apply the force F on system.
The acceleration of system is given by,


Let us apply the force F on system.
The acceleration of system is given by,

The acceleartion acting on the system is irrespective of whether force is applied on mass M or m.
If force F is applied on mass m then contact force F1 is,
If force F is applied on Mass M then contact force F2 is,