Finding acceleration using static/kinetic friction, mass & applied force?

In summary, to solve for the acceleration of the fridge, you need to first determine if the applied force is enough to overcome the static friction. If it is, then you can use the equation F=ma, using the value for Mk in place of Ms. The fridge will experience a drop in friction from Ms to Mk as soon as it starts moving.
  • #1
emall16
1
0

Homework Statement



a fridge with a mass of 120kg is at rest on a kitchen floor. If Ms is 0.32 and Mk is 0.28 and you apply 472N of force what will be the acceleration of the fridge?

m=120kg
Ms=0.32
Mk=0.28
Fa=472N

Homework Equations



Ff=MFn

Fw=mg
Fw=1176N
Fn=1176N

F=ma


The Attempt at a Solution



not sure how to start solving for acceleration. was thinking that i needed to find the net force so that i could plug it into F=ma and solve for acceleration, but i am unsure how to find net force from the given information. could use the Ff=MFn equation but I am not sure whether to plug in static or kinetic friction. any help is appreciated, thank you!
 
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  • #2
There are two steps to the problem...

Is the applied force enough to overcome the static friction? If not the fridge won't move so acceleration = 0.

If it is then your approach is correct. Use Mk in the equation.

Basically as soon as it starts moving friction drops from Ms to Mk. So you can ignore Ms when working out the net force.
 

Related to Finding acceleration using static/kinetic friction, mass & applied force?

What is the difference between static and kinetic friction?

Static friction is the force that prevents an object from moving when a force is applied to it, while kinetic friction is the force that acts on an object as it is moving.

How do you calculate the acceleration of an object using static/kinetic friction, mass, and applied force?

The acceleration of an object can be calculated using the formula a = Fnet/m, where Fnet represents the net force acting on the object. The net force can be calculated by subtracting the force of static friction (or kinetic friction if the object is already in motion) from the applied force.

What factors affect the magnitude of static/kinetic friction?

The magnitude of static/kinetic friction is affected by the type of materials in contact, the roughness of the surfaces, and the normal force exerted on the object.

How does the mass of an object affect the amount of static/kinetic friction?

The mass of an object does not affect the amount of static/kinetic friction. However, it does affect the force required to overcome the friction and move the object.

Can the coefficient of friction change?

Yes, the coefficient of friction can change depending on the materials in contact, the surface roughness, and other factors such as temperature and humidity.

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