Static/Kinetic Friction, Probelm solving question Purely algebraic

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Homework Help Overview

The problem involves a rocket-propelled trolley that accelerates, causing a coin on its floor to slide backward. The task is to derive expressions for the coefficients of static and kinetic friction between the coin and the trolley floor, given the motion equations and conditions of the system.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Mathematical reasoning

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • The original poster attempts to derive expressions for static friction using acceleration and forces acting on the coin. Some participants clarify the application of Newton's laws and the role of static friction in preventing the coin from sliding initially.

Discussion Status

Participants are exploring the relationship between the forces acting on the coin and the coefficients of friction. Guidance has been provided regarding the correct application of Newton's laws, and there is an ongoing inquiry into the kinetic friction coefficient, with one participant seeking further hints.

Contextual Notes

There is a noted transition from static to kinetic friction as the coin begins to slide, and the discussion reflects uncertainty about the kinetic friction coefficient. The problem is framed within the constraints of a homework assignment, emphasizing the need for algebraic expressions rather than numerical solutions.

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Homework Statement


A rocket Propelled Trolly begins at rest time t = 0s, and then accelerates along a straight track such that the speed at time t is
[itex]v(t)=bt^{2}[/itex]
where b is a constant, during the period 0<t<t2. at time [itex]t_{2}[/itex], the rocket fuel is exhausted and the trolley continues with constant speed
[itex]v_{f}=bt^{2}_{2}[/itex]
A coin is initially at rest on the floor of the trolley. At time [itex]t_{1}[/itex], where [itex]0<t_{1}<t_{2}[/itex], it starts to slide backwards. It stops sliding at [itex]t_{3}[/itex], where [itex]t_{3}>t_{2}[/itex].
Use this information to obtain expressions for the coefficients of static and kinetic friction between the coin and the floor of the trolley.


2. The attempt at a solution
[itex]a=\frac{d}{dt}(v(t))[/itex]

[itex]a=2bt[/itex]

[itex]F_{s}=\mu_{2}N[/itex]

[itex]F_{s}=Ma[/itex] (M=mass of trolley)

[itex]N=mg[/itex] (m=mass of coin)

[itex]\mu_{s}=\frac{F_{s}}{N}[/itex]

[itex]\mu_{s}=\frac{2btM}{mg}[/itex]

Thats as far as I got and I'm not even sure if what I've done is correct.
Thanks in advance.
 
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Welcome to PF, Prodigium

Initially, when the cart begins to accelerate, Newton's 1st law would suggest that, in the absence of any external forces, the coin would remain stationary, which would mean it would begin to slide backwards relative to the floor of the cart. However, there ARE forces acting on the coin, namely static friction (which is forward facing, because it prevents the coin from sliding backwards relative to the cart floor). As a result, the coin accelerates along with the cart, and hence it does not slide relative to the cart floor. Therefore, I would say that in order for the coin to have the same acceleration a(t) as the cart does, the net force on the coin must be equal to:

F = ma(t)

note the lowercase m, not uppercase like you had. This is just Newton's 2nd Law. Unfortunately, this lack of sliding can only occur up to a limit, because the maximum amount of static frictional force that is available is equal to (the coefficient of static friction) * (the normal force) i.e.:

Fs ≤ μsN

Now, we know that sliding starts at time t = t1, and hence a = 2bt1. This is the instant at which the force required to accelerate the coin is equal to the maximum available static frictional force. Beyond this time, static friction will no longer be sufficient to prevent the coin from sliding. So, we equate the net force at this instant to the max value of static friction:

ma(t1) = μsN

2mbt1 = μs(mg)

μs = (2bt1)/g
 
Last edited:
Ah so because the force is acting on the coin not the trolley it's "m" instead of "M" and therefore cancels. Thanks now to attempt the kinetic coef.
 
Thanks for the welcome, so far from what I've seen it's a brilliant site.
 
could you give me a hint for the kinetic because I am completley stuck and have been for a while. thanks
 

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