How Do You Analyze Forces in a Non-Slipping Book Stack Scenario?

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around analyzing forces in a scenario involving two stacked books being accelerated to the right. The original poster describes the setup and attempts to draw free body diagrams for each book while considering the forces acting on them.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Assumption checking, Conceptual clarification

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants explore the definitions of variables and forces involved, such as normal force, friction, and applied force. Questions are raised about the nature of the forces acting on the books, particularly regarding friction and its role in preventing slipping.

Discussion Status

The discussion is ongoing, with participants providing guidance on understanding the forces at play. There are multiple interpretations of the forces involved, and the original poster expresses uncertainty about specific aspects of the problem, indicating a need for further clarification.

Contextual Notes

Participants note the importance of defining variables clearly and understanding the differences in forces when the books are in motion versus stationary. There is an emphasis on the conditions necessary for the upper book to remain in place without slipping.

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A hand supports two books, ma and mb, with ma on top. The hand accelerates the books p and to the right, with a pushing force directed 64° above horizontal. Assuming the upper book does not slip, draw a free body diagram for each book.

My attempt:
1NIx8Sk.png
 
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Which book is on top? and it would help if you defined all of your variables that you have shown.
 
ma is on top
R is the reaction force
n is the normal force
μn is friction
mg is gravity
|Fa| is the applied force
 
What force is friction opposing in order to keep it from slipping?

What is your normal force (or contact force)? Is it the same in this situation as it would be if the books were stationary?
 
Jesse H. said:
What force is friction opposing in order to keep it from slipping?

What is your normal force (or contact force)? Is it the same in this situation as it would be if the books were stationary?
I don't know that's the part I need help with
 
In this problem friction acts only in the x direction. What other forces do you have acting in x? What do you know about those forces if the book doesn't slip?

It might help to say that the reaction force is the force that the bottom book is pushing up on the top book. So the reaction force is actually the y component of your applied force!
 
Last edited:

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