Try it on paper first. A hint, the key idea and the worked solution are here when you need them.
A block rests on a floor with and . Taking , find the friction and the acceleration for a horizontal push of
Static friction matches the push, up to a limit . Once the body slides, kinetic friction is , nearly steady, with . Friction acts along the surface, against the sliding.
Have you tried it?
Work it out on paper first. It is fine to get stuck or make a mistake: that is how we learn. When you are ready, go through the solution one step at a time, and check each step against your own.
Given. , , ; .
Plan. Compare each push with the limit .
Step 1. The limit. .
Step 2. (a) is below the limit: friction is , and .
Step 3. (b) is still just below : friction is , and .
Step 4. (c) is above: the block slides. , and .
Answer: (a) , at rest. (b) , at rest. (c) , with .
Check. Once it slides, the friction drops below the limit, as says.
Watch out. Static friction is not always . Below the limit it equals the push.
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