Help with Forces in 2 Dimensions

In summary, Jim is moving a 2kg brick along the ceiling with no acceleration and a coefficient of kinetic friction of 0.467. By setting the applied force equal to the force due to friction and breaking it down into its components, we can solve for the magnitude of the applied force. Using three equations and three unknowns, we can find that the magnitude of the applied force is -12.233N.
  • #1
MatthewBann
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Homework Statement



Jim moves a 2kg brick along the ceiling by applying a force at an angle of 24.6 degrees. If the brick moves with no acceleration and the coefficient of kinetic friction between the brick and the ceiling is 0.467, what is the magnitude of the applied force?


Homework Equations



F(parallel) = F(app)cos24.6
F(perpendicular) = F(app)sin24.6
F(normal) = F(perpendicular) - F(g)
F(g) = (2.0)(9.8) = 19.6N
F(net) = 0 = F(parallel) - F(kineticfriction)
F(kineticfriction) = (coeff-kin-fric)F(normal) = 0.467(F(app)sin24.6 - 19.6)

The Attempt at a Solution



Since there is no net force, I set the Force due to Friction equal to the Applied force and then attempted to solve for applied force. See here:

0.467(F(app)sin24.6 - 19.6) = F(app)cos24.6

Doing so, I get F(app) = -12.233N. This answer makes no sense, and I don't see my error. My students are confused and lose confidence in me when I can't solve my own problems...and it concerns me. Help, please?
 
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  • #2
No acceleration implies that Fk = Fx

Breakinging F down into it's components we get:
Fcos[tex]\theta[/tex] = Fx
Fsin[tex]\theta[/tex] = Fy

Now setting Fx = Fk = (2kg * 9.81 m/s - Fy)

Now you have three equations and three unknowns and can solve for F.

I made +y in the direction of gravity, make sure you check your convention so you don't get the directions mixed
 

FAQ: Help with Forces in 2 Dimensions

What is a force in 2 dimensions?

A force in 2 dimensions is a physical quantity that has both magnitude and direction and acts on an object in two dimensions, typically represented by a Cartesian coordinate system. It is commonly used in physics to analyze and describe the motion of objects.

How do you calculate the components of a force in 2 dimensions?

The components of a force in 2 dimensions can be calculated using trigonometric functions. The horizontal component, or x-component, can be calculated using the formula Fx = F * cos(theta), where F is the magnitude of the force and theta is the angle between the force and the x-axis. The vertical component, or y-component, can be calculated using the formula Fy = F * sin(theta).

What is the difference between a vector and a scalar quantity?

A vector quantity has both magnitude and direction, while a scalar quantity only has magnitude. In the context of forces in 2 dimensions, a force is a vector quantity because it has both magnitude, typically measured in Newtons (N), and direction, typically measured in degrees or radians.

How do you determine the net force in 2 dimensions?

To determine the net force in 2 dimensions, you need to add together all of the individual forces acting on an object. This can be done by breaking each force into its horizontal and vertical components, and then adding the x-components and y-components separately. The net force can then be calculated using the Pythagorean theorem: Fnet = sqrt(Fx^2 + Fy^2).

Can forces in 2 dimensions be balanced?

Yes, forces in 2 dimensions can be balanced, meaning that the net force acting on an object is equal to zero. This can occur when the individual forces acting on an object cancel each other out, such as when an object is at rest or moving with a constant velocity. In these cases, the forces in one dimension may be unbalanced, but when considering both dimensions together, they balance out.

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