Three blocks of masses

PHYSICS · Single correct · AP · Physics C: Mechanics · Force and Translational Dynamics · Force and Translational Dynamics

Problem

Three blocks of masses 1 kg1\,\text{kg}, 2 kg2\,\text{kg} and 3 kg3\,\text{kg} are stacked one above the other on a horizontal floor (1 kg1\,\text{kg} on the top, 3 kg3\,\text{kg} at the bottom). The coefficients of static friction are 0.40 between the top and middle blocks, 0.30 between the middle and bottom blocks, and 0.50 between the bottom block and the floor. A horizontal force FF is applied to the bottom block. What is the greatest value of FF for which all three blocks can move together without any slipping? (Take g=9.8 m/s−2g = 9.8\,\text{m/s}^{-2}.) (a) 53 N53\,\text{N} (b) 29 N29\,\text{N} (c) 47 N47\,\text{N} (d) 18 N18\,\text{N}

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