A normal force of 38 newtons acts on a book lying on a table. If the coefficient of static friction is 1.2, what is the minimum applied force required to slide the book?

Question

anonymous · Answer

i dont understand this my teacher doesnt even teach physics so this doesnt help me at all i need help and im in an alternative school thats why she doesnt know how to do this cause shes only a biology teacher not physics or chemistry

michele_laino · Answer

the friction force which is action on your book, is parallel to the surface of the table, and its magnitude, R, is given by the subsequent formula:
$$\Large  R = \mu \left( {F + mg} \right)$$
where \mu is the friction coefficient, m is the mass of the book, and F is the normal force

anonymous · Answer

Well I cant speak to your teacher, but physics is best learned by doing problems.  

First step, DRAW A DIAGRAM.  Any time you are doing force problems a diagram is absolutely essential to make sure you properly understand the situations, don't just say you do, show it to yourself.

Second, once you have a full picture draw a force diagram.... basically just a dot with all the relevant forces (drawn as arrow away from the point and point in the direction of the force) acting on it.  You should have the weight down and the normal force up.  Your pushing on the book and its not moving.... clearly something has to be resisting your push.  How could you turn that into a mathematical statement?

I strongly recommend actually doing the experiment with a real book and experience it.

anonymous · Answer

Here is a place to learn a little more about friction: http://hyperphysics.phy-astr.gsu.edu/hbase/frict.html