Calculating Friction Force on Two Accelerated Blocks

In summary, two blocks with masses of 3.500 kg and 6.200 kg are accelerated across a frictionless surface with the same acceleration. The larger block on the bottom is pulled by a force of 13.00 N, and the friction forces between the two blocks prevent them from sliding relative to each other. The question asks for the size of the friction force between the larger block and the smaller block. The force diagram shows that the force on the lower block is equal to the pulling force, and the acceleration of the lower block is also equal to the pulling force divided by its mass. With the same acceleration, the force on the top block can be computed by using the equation F=ma. The source of this force
  • #1
buys.trevor
3
0
2 blocks are accelerated across a horizontal frictionless surface as shown in a diagram (block on block getting pulled by a force, larger block on bottom). TH friction forces keep the 2 blocks from sliding relatice to each other, and the two move witha same acceleration. If F= 13.00 N, m1= 3.500 kg, and m2 = 6.200 kg, what is the size of the FRICTION FORCE of the large block on the small block?

I have no idea where to start! Please help!
 
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  • #2
i think that only the box in the bottom is getting pulled. In that case, what is the force on the lower box? What will the acceleration be in the lower box due to this force? and finally, since the acceleration of the boxes are same, you can compute the force on the box kept above. Where does this force come from?
 
  • #3
it doesn't say where the force comes from but it comes from the right of the blocks horizontal to the ground.
 
  • #4
buy trevor s. said:
it doesn't say where the force comes from but it comes from the right of the blocks horizontal to the ground.

Hi buys.trevor! Welcome to PF! :smile:

HInt: draw a force diagram for the top box only.

What have you drawn? :smile:
 
  • #5
Thanks to all that helped I finally figured it out after several hours hardcore studying!
 

Related to Calculating Friction Force on Two Accelerated Blocks

1. What is friction force?

Friction force is the force that opposes the motion of an object when it comes into contact with another surface. It is caused by the microscopic roughness of the surfaces and the interlocking of their irregularities.

2. How is friction force calculated?

Friction force can be calculated using the formula F = uN, where F is the friction force, u is the coefficient of friction, and N is the normal force between the two surfaces. The coefficient of friction depends on the type of surfaces in contact.

3. What factors affect the friction force on a block?

The friction force on a block can be affected by several factors such as the type of surfaces in contact, the force pushing the block, the surface area of contact, and the presence of lubricants or contaminants.

4. How does the weight of the block affect the friction force?

The weight or the force pushing the block affects the friction force by increasing the normal force between the surfaces, which in turn increases the friction force. This is because the normal force is directly proportional to the friction force.

5. How can friction force be reduced?

Friction force can be reduced by using lubricants, which create a layer between the surfaces and reduce the roughness and interlocking of their irregularities. Additionally, reducing the force pushing the block or increasing the surface area of contact can also decrease the friction force.

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