Finding acceleration of an object on a horizontal surface

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on calculating the acceleration of a 59 kg box on a horizontal surface when subjected to applied forces of 330 N and 485 N, with static and kinetic friction coefficients of 0.66 and 0.37, respectively. For part (a), the box remains stationary under a 330 N force due to static friction, which exceeds the applied force. In part (b), with a 485 N force, the box overcomes static friction and accelerates, calculated using Newton's second law, F=ma, and the kinetic friction coefficient.

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  • Understanding of Newton's second law (F=ma)
  • Knowledge of static and kinetic friction coefficients
  • Ability to apply friction equations in real-world scenarios
  • Basic algebra for solving equations
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Homework Statement



The coefficients of static and kinetic friction between a 59 kg box and a horizontal surface are 0.66 and 0.37, respectively.

(a) What is the acceleration of the object if a 330 N horizontal force is applied to the box?

(b) What is the acceleration if the applied force is 485 N

Homework Equations



F=ma, coefficient of friction equations

The Attempt at a Solution



I tried using the equations

but I am not really sure how they are supposed to be used
 
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Is this applied to the box at rest? in that case the applied force has to be greater than the max Static Friction for the box to have any acceleration.
 

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