A wooden block of mass rests on a horizontal table

PHYSICS · Multi-part · AP · Physics 1: Algebra-based · Force and Translational Dynamics · Force and Translational Dynamics

Problem

A wooden block of mass 6 kg6\,\text{kg} rests on a horizontal table. The coefficients of friction between the block and the table are μs=0.45\mu_s = 0.45 and μk=0.30\mu_k = 0.30. A student claims that if a horizontal force of 20 N20\,\text{N} is applied, the block will certainly start moving. Answer the following questions about this claim. (i) State the meaning of static friction and kinetic friction for this situation. (ii) Calculate the maximum value of static friction that can act on the block. (iii) Determine whether the block will remain at rest or start sliding when the 20 N20\,\text{N} force is applied. Justify your answer with numerical work. (iv) If the block does not move, find the magnitude and direction of the frictional force acting on it.

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