Question

A 21 N block rests on a horizontal surface. The coefficients of static and kinetic friction between the surface and the block are μs = 0.80 and μk = 0.60. A horizontal string is attached to the block and a constant tension T is maintained in the string. What is the force of friction acting on the block for each of the following values of T?
a) T=15N

b) T=35N

Answer 1

Answer:

a)15 N

b)12.6 N

Explanation:

Given that

Weight of block (wt)= 21 N

μs = 0.80 and μk = 0.60

We know that

Maximum value of static friction given as

Frs = μs m g = μs .wt

by putting the values

Frs= 0.8 x 21 = 16.8 N

Value of kinetic friction

Frk= μk m g = μk .wt

By putting the values

Frk= 0.6 x 21 = 12.6 N

a)

When T = 15 N

Static friction Frs= 16.8 N

Here the value of static friction is more than tension T .It means that block will not move and the value of friction force will be equal to the tension force.

Friction force = 15 N

b)

When T= 35 N

Here value of tension force is more than maximum value of static friction that is why block will move .We know that when body is in motion then kinetic friction will act on the body.so the value of friction force in this case will be 12.6 N

Friction force = 12.6 N