What Is the Minimum Force Needed to Keep Two Blocks Stationary?

AI Thread Summary
The discussion focuses on calculating the minimum force required to keep two blocks stationary under different conditions of friction. In part a, the frictional force between the blocks must equal the gravitational force acting on the smaller block, leading to a derived formula for force. The user expresses confusion over discrepancies between their calculations and the book's solution. In part b, the presence of friction alters the equations, and the user questions their approach again. The main issue highlighted is the incorrect assumption that the force between the blocks is the same as the applied force on the first block.
doktorwho
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Homework Statement


Diagram.JPG

##m=1[kg]##, ##M=5[kg]##, ##u=0.6##
Calculate the minimum force required for the blocks to remain in the same position thourought the motion. For the part a) there is no friction between block 2 and the floor, for the part b there is and its ##u_f##

Homework Equations


3. The Attempt at a Solution [/B]
For the part a) the frictional force between the blocks must be equal to ##mg##. The frictional force is proportional to the force on the block.
##mg=F_{fr}##
##mg=uN## ##\Rightarrow## ##N=ma## ##\Rightarrow## ##F=(m+M)a##
##mg=um\frac{F}{m+M}## ##\Rightarrow## ##F=g\frac{m+M}{u}##
The book solution is: ##F=mg\frac{m+M}{uM}##
I was certain i got this right and then i see a different answer in the book. What is wrong?
For the part b)
##mg=F_{fr}##
##mg=uN## ##\Rightarrow## ##N=ma## ##\Rightarrow## ##(m+M)a=F-u_pMg## ##\Rightarrow## ##a=\frac{F-u_pMg}{m+M}##
Is this right so far?
 
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doktorwho said:
I was certain i got this right and then i see a different answer in the book. What is wrong?
You are assuming that the force between the blocks equals the force applied to the first block. Not so.
 
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