Understanding Friction: A Systematic Approach to Solving Problems

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around understanding friction in a multi-block system where a force is applied to one of the blocks. The original poster seeks to develop a systematic approach to determine the acceleration of each block, given the coefficients of friction.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Assumption checking, Conceptual clarification

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants are exploring how to describe the effects of an applied force on the blocks and the resulting accelerations. Questions are raised about the relationship between the applied force and the frictional forces acting on the blocks. There is an emphasis on understanding the transition between different scenarios based on the force magnitude.

Discussion Status

Some participants are guiding the original poster to articulate the problem in terms of scenarios and to consider the implications of the applied force on the frictional interactions between the blocks. There is a focus on conceptual understanding rather than providing direct solutions.

Contextual Notes

The original poster has indicated a desire for a general method to solve friction problems, suggesting a need for clarity on foundational concepts related to friction and acceleration in this context.

ritwik06
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Homework Statement


I have been facing constant problems in solving questions about friction. I wish to formulate a general method of solving such questions.
http://img71.imageshack.us/img71/3535/frictionzf3.jpg
Here u1, u2 and u3 are friction coefficients. (Assume kinetic coefficient to be same as limiting static coefficient )
I wish to find the acceleration in each block in a systematic manner when a force F is applied on block
1) A
2) B
3) C

Help me discern a solution in a systematic manner in order that I may remember it for a long time.
 
Last edited by a moderator:
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What answer would you like us to give? :)
 


CompuChip said:
What answer would you like us to give? :)

1)Proceeding for the first part. A force F Newton is applied on block A. My aim is to calculate the acceleration of all the 3 blocks. How shall I proceed?
Someone please help me. I am not asking for solution but please will you guide me through it??
 
Last edited:


Please help me guys
 


Sorry, I missed your previous post.

OK so let's start with the first case then. First try to describe in words (well, you can use formula's, but not entire calculations) what will happen when the force is applied? Well, that depends on the magnitude of the force. Can you say what happens in the two possible scenario's, and what the transition between them is? Do you know of any formulas that will give the frictional force of the top block on the one below it, in the two different cases?
 

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