Pushing Against Friction

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In summary, a man is pushing a box with a mass of 100kg. There is friction between the man and the floor, with a force of 150N. The man exerts a force, F, to accelerate the box at a rate of 0.3m/s/s. According to Newton's 2nd law, F = ma, the man needs to exert at least 150N to overcome the frictional force and accelerate the box. Therefore, the force exerted by the man on the box is 180N.
  • #1
Ryo124
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Homework Statement



A man pushes a heavy box. The mass of the box is 100kg. There is friction between the man and the floor; the frictional force is 150N. As the mas pushes hard, the box accelerates with acceleration 0.3m/s/s. Calculate the force F exerted by the man on the box.

Homework Equations



F = ma

The Attempt at a Solution



Does the man need to at least exert 150N to overcome the force of friction? I don't know how to attempt the problem.
 
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  • #2
Ryo124 said:
Does the man need to at least exert 150N to overcome the force of friction?
Absolutely. If you drew a diagram of the situation (always a good idea), what horizontal forces would you show acting on the box? Apply Newton's 2nd law to the box.
 
  • #3
So the answer would be 180N, correct?
 
  • #4
Correct.
 

What is friction and how does it affect objects?

Friction is a force that resists the motion of objects when they are in contact. It can cause objects to slow down or stop, and it also creates heat. The amount of friction depends on the materials and surfaces involved, as well as the force pushing against them.

What is the difference between static and kinetic friction?

Static friction occurs when two objects are in contact but not moving relative to each other. It prevents the objects from sliding past each other. Kinetic friction occurs when two objects are in motion relative to each other and rubbing against each other. It is generally lower than static friction.

How can friction be reduced or increased?

Friction can be reduced by using lubricants, such as oil or grease, between two surfaces. It can also be reduced by using smoother or more slippery materials. Friction can be increased by increasing the force pushing against the objects or by using rougher or stickier materials.

What are the practical applications of understanding friction?

Understanding friction is crucial in many areas, including engineering, transportation, and sports. It allows us to design more efficient machines, such as engines and brakes. It also helps us improve the performance of vehicles, such as cars and airplanes. In sports, understanding friction is essential for athletes to maximize their movements and minimize their energy expenditure.

How does friction affect the environment?

Friction can cause wear and tear on surfaces, leading to the production of microplastics, which can harm the environment. It also contributes to the process of erosion, which can change landscapes and affect ecosystems. On the other hand, friction is necessary for many natural processes, such as pollination and seed dispersal.

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