Solving a Static and Kinetic Friction Problem

For part (b) what is the acceleration of the system?In summary, in the given scenario, there is a system consisting of two boxes, m1 and m2, connected by a string and a pulley. The masses of m1 and m2 are 10kg and 4kg respectively. The coefficient of static friction between m1 and the horizontal surface is 0.50, while the coefficient of kinetic friction is 0.30. The question asks for the acceleration of the system in two different scenarios - when the system is released from rest and when m2 is moving downward. The equation Fnet=ma can be used to solve for the acceleration in both cases, with the coefficient of static friction used for the
  • #1
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Homework Statement


In the following figure(one box on a table, m1, connected to a string that is on a pulley attached to box m2), m1=10kg and m2=4kg. The coefficient of static friction between m1 and the horizonatl surface is 0.50 while the coefficient of kinetic friction is 0.30. (a) If the system is released from rest, what will its acceleration be? (b) If the system is set in motion with m2 moving downward, what will be the acceleration of the system?


Homework Equations


Fnet=ma


The Attempt at a Solution


I've only done problems with a single friction or coefficient of friction given and I don't understand how to use kinetic or static. I've never worked with them before so I have no idea on how to go about this.
 
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  • #2


The static coefficient is used to calculate the force of friction when there is no motion, if things are moving you use the kinetic coefficient to calculate friction. For part (a) what are all the forces on the two boxes?
 

Related to Solving a Static and Kinetic Friction Problem

What is static and kinetic friction?

Static friction is the force that prevents an object from moving when a force is applied to it. Kinetic friction is the force that opposes the motion of an object that is already in motion.

How do you calculate static and kinetic friction?

The formula for calculating static friction is μsN, where μs is the coefficient of static friction and N is the normal force. The formula for calculating kinetic friction is μkN, where μk is the coefficient of kinetic friction and N is the normal force.

What factors affect static and kinetic friction?

The coefficient of friction is affected by the type of surfaces in contact and the roughness of those surfaces. The normal force, which is the force pushing the two surfaces together, also affects the friction force. Additionally, the presence of lubricants or other substances can impact friction.

How can static and kinetic friction problems be solved?

To solve a static or kinetic friction problem, you will need to identify the force pushing the object and the force of friction opposing it. Use the appropriate formulas to calculate the friction force and compare it to the force pushing the object. If the friction force is less than the pushing force, the object will move. If it is greater, the object will remain stationary.

What are some real-world applications of static and kinetic friction?

Static and kinetic friction play a crucial role in everyday life. For example, static friction allows us to walk without slipping and kinetic friction allows us to control the speed of a car while driving. Friction is also important in sports, such as in the grip of a tennis racket or the sliding of a hockey puck. In industrial settings, friction is utilized in braking systems and in the movement of machinery. It is also a critical factor in designing structures and devices to ensure stability and safety.

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