Friction with moving block question

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on calculating the minimum horizontal force P required to prevent a small cube (mass = 4.6 kg) from sliding down a larger cube (mass = 49 kg) on a frictionless surface. The coefficient of static friction between the cubes is 0.71. Participants suggest using the relationship between the normal force, static friction, and the acceleration of the small block to determine the necessary force P. The problem emphasizes the importance of understanding forces and friction in mechanics.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of Newton's laws of motion
  • Knowledge of static friction and its coefficient
  • Basic principles of force and acceleration
  • Familiarity with free body diagrams
NEXT STEPS
  • Calculate the normal force acting on the small cube using its weight and the acceleration of the system.
  • Explore the relationship between force, mass, and acceleration using F=ma.
  • Investigate the implications of different coefficients of static friction in similar scenarios.
  • Review examples of block sliding problems in physics to reinforce concepts.
USEFUL FOR

Students studying physics, educators teaching mechanics, and anyone interested in understanding the dynamics of forces and friction in block systems.

ethrust2
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The drawing shows a large cube (mass = 49 kg) being accelerated across a horizontal frictionless surface by a horizontal force P. A small cube (mass = 4.6 kg) is in contact with the front surface of the large cube and will slide downward unless P is sufficiently large. The coefficient of static friction between the cubes is 0.71. What is the smallest magnitude that P can have in order to keep the small cube from sliding downward?

http://www.flickr.com/photos/42276194@N04/3981264713/

Anyone have any idea?

I tried both normal forces multiplied by the static friction coefficient.
 
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Welcome to PF!

Hi ethrust2! Welcome to PF! :wink:

Hint: for a particular P, what is the acceleration of the small block?

and so what is the reaction force on the small block? :smile:​
 

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