Minimal coefficient of friction

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Homework Help Overview

The problem involves determining the minimal coefficient of friction for a rectangle held by a horizontal rope and friction against a wall. The context includes concepts from mechanics, particularly relating to forces and moments.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Assumption checking, Mathematical reasoning

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the calculation of the distance from the wall to the center of mass and question the correctness of the normal force used in the calculations. There are attempts to clarify whether the shape is a square or rectangle and to verify the calculations related to the geometry involved.

Discussion Status

There are multiple interpretations being explored regarding the geometry and calculations. Some participants have provided alternative calculations for the distance from the wall to the center of mass, suggesting a different coefficient of friction. The discussion remains open with no explicit consensus reached.

Contextual Notes

Participants are questioning assumptions about the shape of the object and the calculations related to the geometry, indicating potential constraints in the problem setup. There is also a mention of humor in the discussion, reflecting a light-hearted engagement with the problem.

Karol
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Homework Statement


The rectangle in the drawing is held by the horizontal rope and the friction on the wall.
What's the minimal coefficient of friction

Homework Equations


Friction force: f=μN

The Attempt at a Solution


Moments round the point of contact with the wall. the side of the rectangle is a, half the diagonal to the center is ##\sqrt {a}##. the distance of the CoM to the wall: ##\sqrt {a}\cdot\sin 55^0=1.16a##
$$1.16a\cdot mg=T\cdot \sin 10^0\rightarrow T=6.68mg$$
$$6.68mg\cdot\mu=mg\rightarrow\mu=0.15$$
It should be 0.3
 

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So from the wall to the center of mass is 1.16 times the length of a side ? That's in mid-air ! ;)
 
Is it a square or rectangle? If it's a square check your calculation for "half the diagonal".
 
BvU said:
So from the wall to the center of mass is 1.16 times the length of a side ? That's in mid-air !
I thank you very much BvU for i didn't laugh so much for some time
 
I believe what you used for the normal force is incorrect.
 
The distance of CoM from the wall: ##\frac{a}{\sqrt{2}}\cdot\sin 55^0=0.58a##
$$0.58a\cdot mg=T\cdot \sin 10^0\rightarrow T=3.41mg$$
$$3.41mg\cdot\mu=mg\rightarrow\mu=0.3$$
 

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