Calculating Force to Accelerate Lawn Mower: Newton's 2nd Law

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on calculating the force required to accelerate a lawn mower using Newton's Second Law. The horizontal friction force is determined to be 55.11 N, and the normal force is 190.8 N. Given the lawn mower's mass of 13 kg and the need to accelerate from rest to 1.3 m/s in 2.0 seconds, the user seeks to clarify the correct application of the equation involving the friction force and the angle of the handle at 49 degrees. The relationship between the applied force, friction, and acceleration is central to solving this problem.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of Newton's Second Law of Motion
  • Knowledge of force components and vector resolution
  • Familiarity with friction forces and normal forces
  • Basic algebra for solving equations
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the application of Newton's Second Law in real-world scenarios
  • Learn about vector resolution in physics, especially in inclined planes
  • Research the effects of friction on motion, including static and kinetic friction
  • Explore the dynamics of forces in mechanical systems, particularly in lawn equipment
USEFUL FOR

Physics students, mechanical engineers, and anyone involved in the design or operation of lawn care equipment will benefit from this discussion.

kgood5885
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I figured out the horizontal friction force, Fpx to be 55.11 N and the normal force exerted vertically to be 190.8 N. And the other info given is F = 84 the lawn mower has a mass of 13 kg and moves at a constant speed. The lawn mower is at an angle of 49 degrees to the horizontal. I need to determine the force the person must exert on the lawn mower to accelerate it from rest to 1.3 m/s in 2.0 seconds (assuming the same retarding force).
Do I use the equation 84 cos 49 + F (friciton) = ma? Or how do I set up this problem?
 
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If the person's Force is along a 49 degree handle
(while the lawn mower itself is on level?)
the person's force will increase the N required,
and might increase the friction Force.

Does your friction stay at 84 cos(49) ?
then get Fx_extra = ma_x
 

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