Find Force of Friction on Wedge: Shm Physics Help

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The discussion revolves around calculating the force of friction on a wedge with a mass attached to a spring, positioned on a rough surface. The wedge is inclined at 60 degrees, and the problem involves analyzing forces acting on the mass and the wedge. The user attempts to derive the equations of motion but questions the discrepancy between their result and the book's answer regarding the force of friction. Clarification is sought on the variable 'a,' which is used differently in the calculations. The conversation highlights the importance of consistent variable definitions in physics problems.
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Homework Statement


A wedge of mass M is placed on a rough surface with a mass m attached to a spring placed rigidly on the wedge. The surface b/w the wedge and the mass m is smooth and the surface between the wegde and the ground is sufficiently rough to keep the wedge from moving. The angle of inclination of the wedge w.r.t ground is 60 degrees. The small block is displaced by a small distance x. Find the force of friction between the ground and the wedge.


Homework Equations



\frac{d^2 x}{dt^2)=-kx
x=asin(\omega t)

The Attempt at a Solution


Force acting on the mass m :

F=-kx
Force along the horizontal direction:
F=-kxcos(60)
F=-\frac{1}{2}kx
m\frac{d^2x}{dt^2}=-\frac{1}{2}kx
\frac{d^2x}{dt^2}=-\frac{1 k}{2 m}x
a=-\frac{k}{2m}asin(\omega t)
\frac{k}{m}=\omega ^2
f_r=Ma
f_r=\frac{1 Ma\omega ^2sin(\omega t)}{2}

but the answer given is f_r=\frac{ma\omega ^2sin(\omega t)}{2}
Is the book wrong or have I made a mistake?
 
Last edited:
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Are you using a to mean two different things here?
 
Yeah, sorry. In the end it should be A, for amplitude.
 
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