Minimum force to make box slide down slope

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SUMMARY

The minimum force required to make a 5.0 kg box slide down a slope at an angle of 30 degrees with a coefficient of static friction of 0.87 is 12N. This calculation involves understanding the forces acting on the box, including gravitational force and static friction. The static friction force is calculated using the formula F_sf = μs * F_normal, where F_normal = mg * cos(φ). The correct application of these equations reveals that the applied force must exceed the net force of static friction minus the gravitational component acting down the slope.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of Newton's laws of motion
  • Knowledge of static friction and its coefficient
  • Ability to calculate normal force and gravitational force components
  • Familiarity with trigonometric functions in physics
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the concept of net force and its application in inclined planes
  • Learn about the dynamics of friction in different materials
  • Explore the effects of varying angles on static friction and motion
  • Investigate the role of kinetic friction once the box begins to slide
USEFUL FOR

Students in physics courses, educators teaching mechanics, and anyone interested in understanding forces on inclined planes and frictional dynamics.

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Homework Statement



If m=5.0kg, φ=30◦ and μs =0.87, what is the minimum force needed to make the box slide down the slope?

[/B]

Homework Equations


force of status friction is less than or equal to the normal force multiplied by the coefficient of static friction
F,normal=mgcosφ

The image is a slope of angle 30 degrees with box, mass 5kg on it. The force is being applied so that the box will slide downward when enough force is applied.

The Attempt at a Solution



Because the F of static friction is equal to coefficient of static friction multiplied by the normal force I got;

F,sf=((9.8)(5)cos(30))(0.87)=36.9N Therefore, the force would have to be greater than this, say 37N

The correct answer is apparently 12N I do not know why! [/B]
 
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Hint: Is friction the only force acting on the box?
 
Thank you! x

Fn=|Fn|cosθ k`
Fg= -mg k`
Ff= |Fn|(us) i`
Fpush=Ff-mgsinθ

Therfore,

us(mgcosθ)-mgsinθ

(0.87(5x9.8(cos30)))-5x9.8xsin30
=12N

yes? ahaha :p
 

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