Finding the coefficient of Friction

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To find the coefficient of friction between the book and the floor, first calculate the net force acting on the book using Fnet = ma, where the acceleration is -1.5 m/s² and the mass is 0.4 kg, resulting in a net force of -0.6 N. The applied force is 5 N, so the frictional force can be determined by subtracting the net force from the applied force, yielding a frictional force of 5.6 N. The normal force (FN) is calculated as the weight of the book, which is approximately 3.9 N. Finally, the coefficient of friction is found by dividing the frictional force by the normal force, leading to the solution for the problem.
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Homework Statement



A book has a mass of 400 g. When you slided the book against the floor with 5 N, it accelerated at the rate of -1.5 m/s2. What would the coefficient of friction between the book and the floor be?

Homework Equations



F = ma

W = mg

FN = - mg

The Attempt at a Solution


m=.400
fa: 5N
FN= 3.9 N
A: -1.5m/s

Can someone please explain how I should be finding the force of friction?
 
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Your relevant equations should list the friction force formula (as a function of the coefficient of friction and the normal force).
Also, it's not F=ma, it's Fnet = ma, so calculate the net force and from that you can get the friction force.
 

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