A force of 30.0 N is required to start a 3.8 kg box moving across a horizontal concrete floor

If the 30.0 N force continues, the box accelerates at 0.50 m/s2. What is the coefficient of kinetic friction?

2 answers

  1. First of all, the static coefficient of friction is
    mus = 30/(3.8*9.8)= 0.806

    After motion starts, the friction force f is given by:
    (30 - f) = M a = 9.8 * 0.5 = 4.9 N
    f = 25.1 N
    muk = f/(M*g) = 25.1/(9.8*3.8) = 0.675

  2. - (0.5m/s^2)*(3.8kg) = 1.9N
    Because Force = (mass)*(acceleration)
    - Force of Friction = (30N)-(1.9N) = 28.1N
    Because the 30N force is being accelerated therefore the force is does not have to be as strong so the force ultimately decreases.
    - Force of Surface = (3.8kg)(9.8m/s^2) = 37.24N
    28.1N = (37.24N)*(mu)
    mu = 0.755
    Because Force of Friction = (Coefficient of Friction)*(Force of Surface)

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