How Is Force Calculated When Pushing a Block at Constant Velocity?

AI Thread Summary
When a car pushes a block at a constant velocity of 1 m/s, the net force on the block is zero, meaning the applied force equals the frictional force opposing it. The frictional force can be calculated using the coefficient of friction (0.22) and the weight of the block (300 kg). The relationship established is that the applied force must match the frictional force to maintain constant velocity. The discussion clarifies that while the forces are equal, the block continues to move at a steady speed. Understanding this balance of forces is crucial for solving the problem correctly.
macmac410
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Homework Statement


a car with a constant velocity of 1m/s, accidentally hits a huge block with a mass of 300kg. Instead of stopping the driver constantly maintain the speed, pushing the block along the way until the car runs out of fuel. Find the force applied in the block
if the coefficient of friction in the block and surface is 0.22.

Homework Equations


f=ma


m=300kg
a=0 since velocity is constant

u=Ff/Fn
Fn=W=mg

u=Ff/mg
Ff=u(mg)


The Attempt at a Solution


i don't know where to start but it seems that the forced applied on the block was zero since velocity is constant? Am i riGht?
 
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macmac410 said:
i don't know where to start but it seems that the forced applied on the block was zero since velocity is constant? Am i riGht?
No. Since the velocity is constant the net force on the block must be zero, not the applied force. What force acts on the block opposing the applied force?
 
Doc Al said:
No. Since the velocity is constant the net force on the block must be zero, not the applied force. What force acts on the block opposing the applied force?

friction acts on the block opposing the applied force,
since you said that the net force must be zero hence!
Ffriction=Fapplied?

thanks now its getting clearer,
but how is it happened that frictional force is equal to applied force? If the two force are equal then there must be no motion on them?
 
macmac410 said:
friction acts on the block opposing the applied force,
since you said that the net force must be zero hence!
Ffriction=Fapplied?
Right. (Now you've got to figure out the friction force.)

thanks now its getting clearer,
but how is it happened that frictional force is equal to applied force? If the two force are equal then there must be no motion on them?
No, it means that the block isn't changing its velocity (once it's moving along with the car, that is). I presume that they want the applied force once constant velocity is attained.
 
Thank you very much Doc Al!
now i can find the right answer..
 
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