Help with Newton's Laws (AP Physics B)

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SUMMARY

The problem involves calculating the maximum net force that can be applied to a 25kg block, which has a 15kg block resting on top of it, before the top block begins to slide. The coefficient of static friction between the two blocks is 0.408. Using the equation for frictional force, fr = (mu)g, where g is the acceleration due to gravity, the maximum force can be determined by analyzing the forces acting on the top block and ensuring that the applied force does not exceed the frictional force that holds the blocks together.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of Newton's Laws of Motion
  • Knowledge of static friction and its calculation
  • Familiarity with free body diagrams
  • Basic algebra for solving equations
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the concept of static friction in detail, focusing on its role in motion.
  • Learn how to construct and analyze free body diagrams for multi-block systems.
  • Explore Newton's second law and its application in real-world problems.
  • Practice similar physics problems involving friction and acceleration.
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Students studying AP Physics, particularly those focusing on mechanics and friction, as well as educators looking for examples of applied physics problems.

stonecoldgen
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Homework Statement



they keep telling me it is a simple problem, I've actually done harder problems of the same thing, but i just don't seem to get this one.

A 15kg block sits on a 25kg block. The coefficient of static friction between the blocks is 0.408 and there is no friction between the 25kg block and the floor. Find the maximum net force that can be applied to the 25kg blcok before the 15kg blcok begins to slide.




Homework Equations



sigmaF=a(sigmaM)
fr=(mu)g

The Attempt at a Solution



I think i need to find out at which point the exerted force surpases the friction force (because it is what holds the 2 blocks together).

This didn't work exactly how i wanted and it didn't give me the right answer.
 
Physics news on Phys.org
What force causes the top block to accelerate? What's the maximum acceleration the top block can have?
 

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