Calculate the force required to pull the truck

In summary, the coefficient of kinetic friction is 0.35 for a 110 kg trunk being dragged at a constant velocity with a horizontal force of 380N. Adding a 55 kg friend sitting on the trunk requires an additional force of 566N to keep the trunk moving at a constant velocity. To determine if a force of 150N [up] from a friend will help, a free-body diagram should be used to calculate the net force.
  • #1
oMovements
28
0

Homework Statement


You are dragging a 110 kg trunk across a floor at a constant velocity with a horizontal force of 380N.
a) Calculate the coefficient of kinetic friction
b)A friend decides to help by pulling on the truck with a force of 150N [up]. Will this help? Calculate the force required to pull the truck at a constant velocity to help you decide.
c) Instead of pulling on the trunk, your 55 kg friend just sits on it. What force is required to keep the trunk moving at a constant velocity?

Homework Equations


μ=Ff/Fn

The Attempt at a Solution



a) μk= Fk/Fn
= 380/(110x9.8)
μk = 0.35

b)

c) Fk = μkFn
= (0.35)(165x9.8)
Fk = 566N

Did I solve a) and c) correctly? Also how would I go about doing b).
 
Last edited:
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #2
(a) sort of - you should start from a free-body diagram, which makes the equations look different.
(b) use a free-body diagram
(c) again - sort of - same reason. Where did you get that relationship from? (i.e. to add the masses.)
 

1. What is the formula for calculating force?

The formula for calculating force is force = mass x acceleration. In order to calculate the force required to pull a truck, you will need to know the mass of the truck and the acceleration at which you want to pull it.

2. How do you determine the mass of the truck?

The mass of the truck can be determined by using a scale or by referring to the manufacturer's specifications. It is important to use the correct mass in the formula for calculating force.

3. What is the acceleration of a truck being pulled?

The acceleration of a truck being pulled will depend on a variety of factors such as the slope of the surface it is being pulled on, the weight of the truck, and the force being applied. It is important to consider these factors when determining the acceleration for the calculation.

4. How does friction affect the force required to pull a truck?

Friction can significantly impact the force required to pull a truck. The amount of friction will depend on the surface the truck is being pulled on and the type of tires on the truck. More friction will require a greater force to overcome and pull the truck.

5. Can you use the same formula to calculate force for any type of truck?

Yes, the formula for calculating force can be used for any type of truck as long as you have the correct mass and acceleration values. However, it is important to keep in mind that the amount of force required may vary depending on the weight and friction of the specific truck being pulled.

Similar threads

  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
4
Views
356
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
5
Views
894
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
2
Views
217
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
1
Views
6K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
6
Views
3K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
7
Views
2K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
3
Views
2K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
2
Replies
39
Views
2K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
3
Views
947
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
5
Views
2K
Back
Top