How Do You Calculate Acceleration with Friction Involved?

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on calculating the acceleration of a crate subjected to friction when a horizontal force is applied. A force of 280 N is exerted on a 40 kg crate, with a coefficient of kinetic friction of 0.30, resulting in a frictional force of 118.44 N. The net force acting on the crate is determined to be 161.56 N, leading to an acceleration of 4.04 m/s². The correct application of Newton's second law and friction equations is essential for accurate calculations.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of Newton's second law (Fn=ma)
  • Knowledge of frictional force calculations (fk=uk*Fn)
  • Basic algebra for solving equations
  • Concept of net force in physics
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the application of Newton's laws in various scenarios
  • Learn about different types of friction and their coefficients
  • Explore free-body diagrams to visualize forces acting on objects
  • Investigate advanced dynamics problems involving multiple forces
USEFUL FOR

Students studying physics, particularly those focusing on mechanics and dynamics, as well as educators seeking to explain the concepts of force, friction, and acceleration.

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Homework Statement


A person pushes horizontally with a force of 280 N on a 40 kg crate to move it across a level floor. The coefficient of kinetic friction is 0.30. the magnitude of the frictional force is 118.44. What is the magnitude of the crate's acceleration?



Homework Equations


Fn=ma
fk=uk*Fn


The Attempt at a Solution


I figured out the first problem which was finding the magnitude of frictional force. I think I have to take 280N-118.44N for some reason. Thats just a gut feeling though.

Im just not totally sure which equations to use and what order to use them

Help would be great
 
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Don't just guess. Draw a picture. In which directions are the two horizontal forces applied to the crate?
 
ok, so the frictional force is countering the person's force. that would mean there is a 161.56N force still remaining pushing the box forward.

How do get acceleration from this? a=Fn/m? so that would give me" a=(161.56)/(40). thus a=4.04. is this right?
 

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