How Much Force to Slide a 10 kg Box with Friction?

In summary, in order for the 10 kg box to slide on a horizontal surface with a coefficient of static friction of 0.85, a minimum force of 64.5N at an angle of 30 degrees above the horizontal must be applied to the box. This takes into account the vertical and horizontal components of the applied force and the friction force.
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Homework Statement


A 10 kg box rests on a horizontal surface. The coefficient of static friction is 0.85. If
a force is applied to the object at 30° above the horizontal, what is the minimum
magnitude this force must have in order for the box to slide?

Homework Equations


Fnet = ma
Fs = usFn

The Attempt at a Solution


m=10kg
us=0.85
Theta=30

Okay so Fnet = ma and since the box is at rest, Fnet = 0
The net force is the force we're trying to find minus the friction force making F - Fs = 0, F = Fs
Fs is us*Fn which is 0.85*mg which is 0.85*10kg*9.8 which calculates to 83.3N

Now here is where I'm stuck, the equation now looks like F = 83.3N, which should be the answer but it isn't since the answer is 64.5N and I have no clue how to get it.
Dividing 83.3N by cos30 still doesn't get me 64.5N so I think I might have done something wrong in setting it up?
 
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  • #2
Fn which is 0.85*mg

This is incorrect. Fn will not be just mg. There is also the vertical component of the applied force to consider. You must sum up all the forces in each direction. You can't ignore any!
 
  • #3
Oh I see now, thank you! Fn is actually mg - F*sin 30, making F = us*mg/(cos 30 + us*sin 30)
 

FAQ: How Much Force to Slide a 10 kg Box with Friction?

What is net force and how does it relate to friction?

Net force is the overall force acting on an object, taking into account both magnitude and direction. Friction, on the other hand, is a force that opposes the motion of an object. Net force and friction are related because friction is a component of the net force acting on an object, and it can either increase or decrease the overall net force.

How does net force affect an object's motion?

According to Newton's Second Law of Motion, the net force acting on an object determines its acceleration. If the net force is zero, the object will either remain at rest or continue to move at a constant velocity. If the net force is not zero, the object will accelerate in the direction of the net force.

What factors can affect the amount of friction acting on an object?

The amount of friction acting on an object can be influenced by several factors, including the type of surfaces in contact, the normal force (the force perpendicular to the surfaces), and the roughness or smoothness of the surfaces. Additionally, the presence of lubricants or other substances can also impact the amount of friction.

How can net force and friction be used in everyday life?

Net force and friction play a crucial role in our everyday lives. For example, when we walk, the friction between our shoes and the ground prevents us from slipping. When we drive, the friction between the tires and the road allows us to control the car's motion. Net force is also important in sports, as it determines the trajectory of a ball or the speed of a runner.

How can we reduce friction to increase efficiency?

In most cases, reducing friction can lead to increased efficiency. One way to reduce friction is by using lubricants, which can help to decrease the amount of friction between two surfaces. Additionally, using smoother or more polished surfaces can also reduce friction. In some cases, adding rollers or wheels can also reduce friction and make an object easier to move.

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