Need help finding coefficient of kinetic friction

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Homework Help Overview

The problem involves determining the coefficient of kinetic friction for a packing crate being pushed across a rough horizontal surface with a constant speed. The scenario includes a horizontal force and the mass of the crate.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the implications of constant speed, questioning the resultant forces and the relationship between applied force and frictional force.

Discussion Status

Some participants have provided insights regarding the relationship between the applied force and frictional force, suggesting that the frictional force equals the applied force when moving at constant speed. There is an indication of agreement on the calculated coefficient of kinetic friction, but no formal consensus is reached.

Contextual Notes

The original poster's calculations involve determining the normal force, but there is uncertainty about the next steps to find the coefficient of kinetic friction. The discussion reflects a lack of explicit consensus on the final value of the coefficient.

zinniagirl
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Homework Statement


A horizontal force of 150 N is used to push a 40.0 kg packing crate a distance of 6.00 m on a rough horizontal surface. If the crate moves at constant speed, find the coefficient of kinetic friction between the crate and the surface.


Homework Equations


fK= coeff. of kin. friction X N
Fy= -mgy + normal force


The Attempt at a Solution


I started by using Fy= -mgy + N to be 0= -40 (9.8) (cos 0) + N and found N be 392. But now I'm not sure where to go from here to find the coefficient of kinetic friction. Can anyone help?
 
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Constant speed means the resultant force is zero...so what is the value of the frictional force?
 
rock.freak667 said:
Constant speed means the resultant force is zero...so what is the value of the frictional force?

150 N. So the coefficient of kinetic friction would then be .38, correct?
 
Yes that should be correct.
 
Thanks!
 

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