What is the Relationship Between Friction and Horizontal Force?

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SUMMARY

The relationship between friction and horizontal force is defined by the coefficients of static friction (us) and kinetic friction (uk). When a horizontal force is applied to a box just sufficient to overcome static friction, the acceleration of the box can be expressed as a = (us - uk) * g, where g is the acceleration due to gravity. The applied force equals the maximum static friction force at the onset of motion, and once the box is in motion, the kinetic friction force acts against the applied force, leading to the net force calculation. This results in a clear understanding of how friction affects acceleration in horizontal motion.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of Newton's laws of motion
  • Familiarity with the concepts of static and kinetic friction
  • Knowledge of force diagrams and free body diagrams
  • Basic algebra for manipulating equations
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  • Study the derivation of Newton's second law in detail
  • Explore the differences between static and kinetic friction coefficients
  • Learn about free body diagrams and their application in physics problems
  • Investigate real-world applications of friction in engineering and mechanics
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This discussion is beneficial for physics students, educators, and anyone interested in understanding the dynamics of motion and the role of friction in mechanical systems.

caduceus
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Homework Statement



There is a heavy box across the floor, and you apply a horizontal force just sufficient to get the box moving. As the box starts moving, you continue to apply the same force. Show that the acceleration of the box, once it gets started, is

a=(us-uk)*g


Homework Equations



uk <= us
Fk=uk*Fn

The Attempt at a Solution



I thought that at the initial condition there will be Fs,max=F where Fs,max=us*Fn=us*mg

When the body starts moving the disaster comes!

Since Fk=uk*Fn=uk*mg

Well, I could not combine these equations since something is missing...

What method shall I apply for this question?

Any helps will be appreciated.
 
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Well when the box first starts moving the force applied will be:
F_{applied}={\mu}_s F_N
And it stays at that value. While moving the frictional force is:
F_k=-{\mu}_k F_N
So the acceleration will be equal to the net force divided by mass.
F_{net}=F_{applied}+F_k={\mu}_s F_N-{\mu}_k F_N=( {\mu}_s -{\mu}_k )F_N
 
Thanks for your assistance.
 

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