How does friction affect the stopping distance of a moving crate?

In summary, the problem involves a crate being carried in a truck at a velocity of 15m/s. The coefficient of static friction between the crate and the truck is 0.40. The task is to determine the minimum stopping distance for the truck to prevent the crate from sliding. This can be solved using Newton's Laws by first finding the required force to keep the crate in place and then using that force as a decelerating force to find the stopping distance. Only one free body diagram is needed for this problem, as the reference frame can be from the box. In the x-direction, the forces are Ff = 0.
  • #1
aeromat
114
0

Homework Statement


A crate is carried in a truck traveling horizontally at 15m/s. If the coeff of static friction between the crate and the truck is 0.40, determine the min. stopping distance for the truck such that the crate will not slide on the truck.


Homework Equations


Newton's Laws


The Attempt at a Solution


Ok, what I have so far is this:
I know that there is a frictional force preventing the box from moving. However, I don't understand how this makes sense when I have to use a 15m/s velocity movement forward from the truck. Does this require separate FBD's for both the truck and box?
 
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  • #2
First you will need to find the amount of force that is needed to keep that crate in place using the coefficient of friction from the bed of the truck. Then you will need to use that force as a decelerating force which will be used to find the stopping distance.

I would think you could use only one FBD on this problem because the reference frame can be from the box. Try it and see what happens.
 
  • #3
Ok in the x-direction, are the forces the following:

[Ff = 0] ?
 

Related to How does friction affect the stopping distance of a moving crate?

1. What is an FBD?

An FBD, short for Free Body Diagram, is a graphical representation used in physics and engineering to show the forces acting on an object. It helps visualize and analyze the forces acting on an object in a given situation.

2. When are FBDs used?

FBDs are used in situations where an object is in equilibrium or is undergoing motion. They are particularly useful in analyzing forces acting on an object, such as in mechanics and dynamics problems.

3. How do you draw an FBD?

To draw an FBD, first identify the object of interest and all the external forces acting on it. Then, draw a simple diagram of the object as a dot or a box, and label it with the object's name. Next, draw and label all the external forces acting on the object, including their direction and magnitude. Finally, make sure to include a coordinate system and any other relevant information.

4. Why are FBDs important?

FBDs are important because they provide a visual representation of the forces acting on an object, making it easier to analyze and solve complex problems. They also help in identifying and understanding the relationships between different forces and how they affect the motion of an object.

5. Can you use an FBD for non-physical systems?

Yes, FBDs can be used for both physical and non-physical systems. They can be used to analyze and visualize the forces acting on any type of system, as long as the forces can be represented graphically. This includes systems such as electrical circuits, economic models, and even biological systems.

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