Finding horizontal force using mass and static friction?

Click For Summary

Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around calculating the horizontal force required to move a box with a mass of 30 kg, given a coefficient of static friction of 0.75. Participants are attempting to clarify the problem statement and the relevant equations.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants are discussing the correct interpretation of the problem statement and the variables involved, including the gravitational acceleration and the mass of the object. There is confusion regarding the calculations and the units used.

Discussion Status

The discussion is ongoing, with participants seeking clarification on the problem setup and the calculations. Some guidance has been offered regarding the correct values for gravity and mass, but there is no consensus on the next steps to take.

Contextual Notes

There is a request for the exact wording of the problem statement, indicating potential discrepancies in understanding. Participants are also addressing errors in unit representation and calculations, which may affect their approach to the problem.

Infinite324
Messages
6
Reaction score
0

Homework Statement


There is a box that has a mass of 30 kg. The coefficient of the static friction is 0.75. Find the horizontal force.

Homework Equations


Fs=muFn
F=ma

The Attempt at a Solution


Fs=(.75)(.98)(.30)=.2205 N

That is probably way off... I am very confused right now. Could someone please explain the steps to solving it?
 
Physics news on Phys.org
This can't possibly be the exact problem statement. Please provide the exact problem statement (word for word).

Chet
 
The mass of the garbage can is 30 kg. The coefficient of the static friction between the can and the ground is .75.
What is the horizontal force necessary to get the can moving?
 
Infinite324 said:
The mass of the garbage can is 30 kg. The coefficient of the static friction between the can and the ground is .75.
What is the horizontal force necessary to get the can moving?
Much better. Now in your post #1, what does the 0.98 represent, and what does the 0.30 represent (including their units)?

Chet
 
.98 m/s/s represents gravity and sorry I typed it wrong. It should be 30 N
 
30 kg not 30 N
 
Infinite324 said:
.98 m/s/s represents gravity and sorry I typed it wrong. It should be 30 N
It should be 9.8 m/s/s. How did the 30 kg become 0.30?

Chet
 
Wow yes 9.8 for Gravity. How should I continue then?
 
Infinite324 said:
Wow yes 9.8 for Gravity. How should I continue then?
According to your understanding, you tell me. You almost had it right to start with.

Chet
 
  • Like
Likes   Reactions: Bystander
  • #10
Should I multiply (9.8)(30)(.75)?
 
  • #11
Infinite324 said:
Should I multiply (9.8)(30)(.75)?
If you're not sure about this, you need to go back and review your text and/or notes. The objective of studying a course is so that you can understand the fundamentals (and use this to solve a wide array of problems), rather than just to solve one specific problem.

Chet
 

Similar threads

  • · Replies 42 ·
2
Replies
42
Views
4K
Replies
16
Views
3K
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
2K
Replies
7
Views
2K
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
4K
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
2K
  • · Replies 15 ·
Replies
15
Views
11K
  • · Replies 8 ·
Replies
8
Views
7K
  • · Replies 10 ·
Replies
10
Views
9K
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
2K