Static Friction - starting motion

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around a physics problem involving static friction and the forces required to initiate motion of a crate on a rough surface. The original poster presents a scenario where they are trying to calculate the force necessary to start moving a 32 kg crate, given a coefficient of static friction and an angled applied force.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Assumption checking, Problem interpretation

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • The original poster attempts to calculate the force required using the static friction formula and considers the normal force. They express confusion regarding their calculations and the relationship between the normal force and gravitational force. Other participants suggest re-examining the acceleration in the X direction and emphasize the importance of setting up the correct equations for forces in both the X and Y directions.

Discussion Status

The discussion is ongoing, with participants providing guidance on the importance of correctly formulating the equations of motion. There is a clear indication that multiple interpretations of the problem setup are being explored, particularly concerning the normal force and its calculation.

Contextual Notes

Participants are navigating the complexities of forces acting at an angle and the implications for the normal force, which may not simply be the weight of the crate due to the applied force angle. There is an indication of confusion regarding the relationship between the forces involved and the assumptions made in the calculations.

surfinusa555
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To move a large crate across a rough floor, you push on it with a force at an angle of 21 degrees below the horizontal, as shown in the figure:
http://img227.imageshack.us/img227/4950/walker67ac0.jpg

Find the force necessary to start the crate moving, given that the mass of the crate is 32kg and the coefficient of static friction between the crate and the floor is 0.50.

<br /> F_x = \mu_s * F_N<br />

Here is what I did, and got the wrong answer:
<br /> M_c = 32kg \\*<br />

<br /> \mu_s = 0.50<br />

<br /> F_x = \mu_s * F_N<br />

So...
<br /> F_x = \mu_s * (M_c) * (a_g)<br />

<br /> F_x = 0.5*(32kg)*(9.8 m/s^2)<br />

<br /> F_x = 156.8N<br />

So...
<br /> Cos(21) = (156.8 N)/C<br />

C = 167.96 N

That answer is wrong... so what am I doing wrong?
 
Last edited by a moderator:
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Re-examine your acceleration in the X direction.
 
I'm sorry, I still don't understand...
are you saying that the normal force is not equal to (32)*(9.8)?
 
First write the equations for \Sigma{F_x} = ma_x and \Sigma{F_y} = ma_y.

This is the most important step. If you have the equations right, then the problem is easily solved.
 

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