How to Calculate the Minimum Force Needed to Move a Box on a Ramp with Friction?

In summary, a 3.00 kg box is on a ramp with an angle of 20 degrees and a coefficient of static friction of 0.700. To make the box move, the minimum force needed is calculated by using g = 9.80 m/s2 and the formula mgcos20(mgsin20/static coefficient). For part (a), the force needs to be directed perpendicular to the slope. As for part (b), it is unclear how to calculate the minimum force needed when the force is applied horizontally.
  • #1
darlafelicity
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A box with a mass of 3.00 kg is at rest on a ramp that is at an angle of 20 degrees with the horizontal. The coefficient of static friction between the box and the ramp is 0.700. Use g = 9.80 m/s2. You now want to make the box move by applying a force. To start the box moving, what is the minimum force you need to apply if your force is directed ...

(a) perpendicular to the slope?

(b) horizontally?
 
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  • #2
i got part (a) but I'm not sure why it works. mgcos20(mgsin20/static coefficient)

i still don't know how to do part (b) though.
 

FAQ: How to Calculate the Minimum Force Needed to Move a Box on a Ramp with Friction?

1. What is the force of friction?

The force of friction is the resistance that occurs when two surfaces come into contact and move against each other. It acts in the opposite direction of the applied force and can be affected by factors such as the type of surface, the weight of the objects, and the presence of lubricants.

2. How does friction affect the force of a box?

Friction can reduce the force of a box by acting in the opposite direction. This means that more force is needed to move the box, as some of the force is being used to overcome the resistance of friction. However, friction can also help to keep an object in place, such as preventing a box from sliding down a slope.

3. What is the relationship between friction and the weight of a box?

The weight of a box can affect the force of friction, as a heavier box will have more weight pushing down on the surface and creating more friction. This means that a heavier box will require more force to move, as there is more resistance from friction.

4. How does the type of surface impact the force of friction?

The type of surface can greatly impact the force of friction. Rougher surfaces will generally have more friction, as there are more points of contact between the surfaces. Smooth surfaces, on the other hand, will have less friction as there are fewer points of contact. Additionally, the type of material can also affect the force of friction.

5. Can friction ever be completely eliminated?

No, friction cannot be completely eliminated. It is a natural force that occurs whenever two surfaces come into contact and move against each other. However, it can be reduced through the use of lubricants or by using smoother surfaces, but it cannot be completely eliminated.

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