Answer:
1.5 m/s²
Explanation:
For the block to move, it must first overcome the static friction.
Fs = N μs
Fs = (45 N) (0.42)
Fs = 18.9 N
This is less than the 36 N applied, so the block will move. Since the block is moving, kinetic friction takes over. To find the block's acceleration, use Newton's second law:
∑F = ma
F − N μk = ma
36 N − (45 N) (0.65) = (45 N / 9.8 m/s²) a
6.75 N = 4.59 kg a
a = 1.47 m/s²
Rounded to two significant figures, the block's acceleration is 1.5 m/s².
Usually the coefficient of static friction is greater than the coefficient of kinetic friction. You might want to double check the problem statement, just to be sure.
