Question about Newton's second law

In summary, to cause a 4.0 kg block to slip on top of a 6.0 kg block, a horizontal force of 12N must be applied, with a coefficient of kinetic friction of 0.25 for all contact surfaces. The coefficient of static friction between the two blocks can be found by dividing the maximum horizontal force by the weight of the top block. The maximum horizontal force that can be applied to the lower block is equal to the maximum available static friction between the two blocks. If the horizontal force on the lower block is twice the maximum calculated value, the free body diagrams for each block will show different accelerations.
  • #1
Elclon
2
0
A 4.0 kg block is put on top of a 6.0 kg block. In order to cause the top block to slip on the bottom one when the latter is held fixed, a horizontal force of 12N must be applied to the top block to overcome the maximum static friction. The coefficient of kinetic friction for all contact surfaces is 0.25.
(a) Find the coefficient of static friction between the two blocks.
(b) Find the maximum horizontal force F that can be applied to the lower block so the blocks will move together. (Hint: In this situation, the two blocks still have the same acceleration, while the block on top receives maximum available static friction.) Please draw a free body diagram for each block.
(c) If the horizontal force on the lower block is twice the maximum value calculated in (b) above, draw a free body diagram for each block, and find the accelerations of each block.
 
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  • #2
Welcome to PF.

How would you think to approach the problem?
 
  • #3
I don't even have a clue when dealing with one object is being put on top of another object. Is there anyone who can help me to solve that?
 
  • #4

FAQ: Question about Newton's second law

What is Newton's second law of motion?

Newton's second law of motion states that the acceleration of an object is directly proportional to the net force acting on the object and inversely proportional to its mass.

How is Newton's second law mathematically represented?

The mathematical representation of Newton's second law is F = ma, where F is the net force, m is the mass of the object, and a is the acceleration.

Can you provide an example of Newton's second law in action?

Sure, for example, when you push a shopping cart with a constant force, the cart's acceleration depends on the mass of the cart. If the cart is empty, it will accelerate faster than if it is filled with heavy items.

How does Newton's second law relate to the first and third laws of motion?

Newton's second law is often referred to as the "law of acceleration" and it builds upon the concepts of the first and third laws. The first law states that an object at rest will remain at rest and an object in motion will remain in motion unless acted upon by an external force. The third law states that for every action, there is an equal and opposite reaction. Newton's second law explains how an object's motion changes when an external force is applied.

Can Newton's second law be applied to all objects?

Yes, Newton's second law applies to all objects, regardless of their size, shape, or composition. It is a fundamental law of physics that governs the motion of all objects in the universe.

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