Static Friction - starting motion

In summary, the conversation discusses how to move a large crate across a rough floor. The necessary force to start the crate moving is determined by using the equation F_x = \mu_s * F_N and taking into account the mass of the crate and the coefficient of static friction. However, to find the correct answer, one must first ensure that the equations for \Sigma{F_x} = ma_x and \Sigma{F_y} = ma_y are set up correctly.
  • #1
surfinusa555
2
0
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.

[tex]
F_x = \mu_s * F_N
[/tex]

Here is what I did, and got the wrong answer:
[tex]
M_c = 32kg \\*
[/tex]

[tex]
\mu_s = 0.50
[/tex]

[tex]
F_x = \mu_s * F_N
[/tex]

So...
[itex]
F_x = \mu_s * (M_c) * (a_g)
[/itex]

[tex]
F_x = 0.5*(32kg)*(9.8 m/s^2)
[/tex]

[tex]
F_x = 156.8N
[/tex]

So...
[tex]
Cos(21) = (156.8 N)/C
[/tex]

C = 167.96 N

That answer is wrong... so what am I doing wrong?
 
Last edited by a moderator:
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  • #2
Re-examine your acceleration in the X direction.
 
  • #3
I'm sorry, I still don't understand...
are you saying that the normal force is not equal to (32)*(9.8)?
 
  • #4
First write the equations for [tex]\Sigma{F_x} = ma_x[/tex] and [tex]\Sigma{F_y} = ma_y[/tex].

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

What is static friction?

Static friction is the force that resists the motion between two surfaces that are in contact with each other but not moving relative to each other.

How is static friction different from kinetic friction?

Static friction occurs when two surfaces are not moving relative to each other, while kinetic friction occurs when two surfaces are moving relative to each other.

What factors affect the magnitude of static friction?

The magnitude of static friction depends on the nature of the two surfaces in contact, the force pressing the two surfaces together, and any other external forces acting on the system.

What is the maximum amount of static friction that can exist between two surfaces?

The maximum amount of static friction is equal to the coefficient of static friction multiplied by the normal force between the two surfaces.

How does static friction contribute to starting motion?

In order for an object to start moving, the applied force must overcome the force of static friction. Once the applied force exceeds the maximum static friction, the object will begin to move.

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