Calculating Applied Force in an Accelerating Elevator

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    Elevator Friction
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To calculate the applied force while pushing a box in an accelerating elevator, the upward acceleration is 1.84 m/s², and the box's mass is 28.9 kg. The normal force is calculated as n = m(a + g), resulting in 336.396 N. The force of kinetic friction is determined using fk = uk * n, yielding 104.28 N. The discussion confirms the calculations are correct, emphasizing the importance of including proper units for the force. Overall, the solution process is validated, providing confidence in the results.
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Homework Statement


You are riding in an elevator on the way to the eighteenth floor of your dormitory. The elevator's upward acceleration is a= 1.84 . Beside you is the box containing your new computer; box and contents have a total mass of 28.9 kg. While the elevator is accelerating upward, you push horizontally on the box to slide it at constant speed toward the elevator door.

a)If the coefficient of kinetic friction between the box and elevator floor is uk= 0.31, what magnitude of force must you apply


Homework Equations


n=mgcosθ


The Attempt at a Solution


fy=n-mg=ma
n=m(a+g)=336.396
fk=un=0.31*336.396=104.28

I think this is the solution but I'm not entirely sure. As always any help is appreciated.
 
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Yes, looks good. But don't forget the proper units for the force.
 
thanks for te vote of confidence, I was a little worried I was wrong but I'm right thankfully :)
 
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