You are on page 1of 55

Serway Calc - 10th edition - Physics for Scientists and Engineers

Ch.5 - Forces and Motion: Inertia, Acceleration, and Action-Reaction

Channels
Available on Pearson+

www.pearson.com/channels
Serway Calc - 10th edition - Physics for Scientists and Engineers
Ch.5 - Forces and Motion: Inertia, Acceleration, and Action-Reaction

CONCEPT: INTRO TO FORCES AND NEWTON’S SECOND LAW

● A force is either a _______ or _______ (drawn as an arrow) that changes an object’s velocity. Unit = ______ (___ = kg⋅m
s2
)

● Newton’s 2nd Law: Law of _______________: 𝛴𝐹 = 𝐹𝑛𝑒𝑡 = _____ 𝑎 = _______

- IF a net force acts on an object, it accelerates ___________________ of 𝑭𝒏𝒆𝒕 m = 2kg

- Net Force = Resultant (Vector Sum) after adding all forces acting on an object.
m = 2kg

EXAMPLE: A 10 kg block is pulled by multiple horizontal forces. Calculate the block’s acceleration.

a) b)
FORCES
FB = 20 FA = 70 FB = 100 FA = 70
10kg 10kg 1) Choose direction of +
2) Write & expand 𝜮𝑭 = 𝒎𝒂
3) Solve

● Signs are very important when expanding ΣF=ma!


- Usually, we choose the direction of positive to be to the [ RIGHT | LEFT ] and [ UP | DOWN ].
- When expanding ΣF, Forces [ ALONG | AGAINST ] the positive direction are written with a [ + | – ].
- When expanding ΣF, Forces [ ALONG | AGAINST ] the positive direction are written with a [ + | – ].
- When solving for 𝒂, the sign of your answer gives you the direction of acceleration!

Page 1
Serway Calc - 10th edition - Physics for Scientists and Engineers
Ch.5 - Forces and Motion: Inertia, Acceleration, and Action-Reaction

CONCEPT: SOLVING FOR FORCES USING NEWTON’S SECOND LAW

EXAMPLE: A 10 kg box accelerates to the EXAMPLE: A 10 kg box accelerates to the left at 6m/s2, pushed by 2
right at 9m/s2, pushed by 2 forces. If the box is forces. If the box is pushed right with 70N, calculate the other force.
pushed left with 30N, calculate the other force. Assume the direction of positive is to the right.
a) 60N a) 130N
FORCES
b) 120N b) –130N
c) 150N c) 10N 1) Choose direction of +
d) –10N 2) Write & expand 𝜮𝑭=𝒎𝒂
3) Solve

● Remember! When expanding ΣF, Forces ALONG & AGAINST direction of positive written with + & – sign, respectively.

● Always write letter 𝒂 as _________ (i.e. don’t write ΣF = m(-a)), but plug in correct sign if known (e.g. F1 – 50 = 5(-6)).

● When solving 𝒂, you could get a + or – (direction), but when solving Fs, you always get _________ # (i.e magnitude).

Page 2
Serway Calc - 10th edition - Physics for Scientists and Engineers
Ch.5 - Forces and Motion: Inertia, Acceleration, and Action-Reaction

CONCEPT: NEWTON’S FIRST LAW

● Newton’s 1st Law: Law of _________________: If 𝐹𝑛𝑒𝑡 = ___, 𝑎 = ___, 𝑣 = ___________

- Inertia: Objects _____________ changes in velocity unless acted upon by a _____ Force

EXAMPLE: A box is pushed to the right with 20N and another force of 20N to the left. If the box has a mass of 6kg, find its
acceleration.
FORCES
1) Choose direction of +
2) Write & expand 𝜮𝑭 = 𝒎𝒂
3) Solve

[At rest, no forces] [At rest, forces cancel] [Moving, no forces] [Moving, forces cancel]
𝒗 = 5m/s 𝒗 = 5m/s
𝒗=0 𝒗=0
F=5N F=5N F=5N F=5N
m m m m

- Moving objects (𝑣 __ 0) [DO | DO NOT] require a force to keep moving; without net forces, they keep moving forever!

● __________ = quantity of inertia; a.k.a the amount of _______________ to 𝛥𝒗.


F = 12N
m = 2kg
- For the same 𝑭𝒏𝒆𝒕 , a heavier object accelerates ___________ (m , a , Δ𝑣 )

F = 12N
m = 3kg

Page 3
Serway Calc - 10th edition - Physics for Scientists and Engineers
Ch.5 - Forces and Motion: Inertia, Acceleration, and Action-Reaction

CONCEPT: WEIGHT FORCE AND GRAVITATIONAL ACCELERATION

● All objects near Earth are affected by gravity. Gravity produces a Force, which produces an acceleration. ( _________ )

● GRAVITY

m - Conceptual phenomena which says that objects with mass attract each other

● FORCE due to Gravity (a.k.a. ___________)

____ = ____ =______ UNITS: ____

- Always points towards Earth’s center (usually pointing down)

M ● ACCELERATION due to GRAVITY (a.k.a. Gravitational Acceleration)

____ = ____ =______ (near Earth) UNITS: ____

- NOT constant, varies by location: For example, gEarth = ____, gMoon = ____

● The term “WEIGHT” is used incorrectly in everyday language.


- Scales don’t measure WEIGHT. Instead, they measure ___________.
- Mass [____] = Quantity of matter, [ DOES | DOESN’T ] change at different locations
- Weight [___] = Force due to gravity, [ DOES | DOESN’T ] change at different locations (just like ___)

EXAMPLE: You step on a bathroom scale and it measures your “weight” to be 70kg. What is your REAL weight on
Earth’s surface?

EXAMPLE: If an object has mass 10kg on the Earth, what is its mass on the Moon? What is its weight on the Earth?
What is its weight on the Moon if gmoon=1.62 m/s2?

Page 4
Serway Calc - 10th edition - Physics for Scientists and Engineers
Ch.5 - Forces and Motion: Inertia, Acceleration, and Action-Reaction

PROBLEM: The Mars Rover Perseverance weighed about 10,000 N while on Earth. After it reached the surface of Mars, it
weighed about 3790 N. What is the gravitational acceleration on Mars?
A) gMars = 0.039 m/s2
B) gMars = 0.27 m/s2
C) gMars = 3.7 m/s2
D) gMars = 26 m/s2

Page 5
Serway Calc - 10th edition - Physics for Scientists and Engineers
Ch.5 - Forces and Motion: Inertia, Acceleration, and Action-Reaction

CONCEPT: VERTICAL FORCES AND ACCELERATION IN THE Y-AXIS


FORCES
● You’ll need to solve problems where vertical forces cause objects to accelerate in the Y-axis. 1) Draw FBD: W,FA,T,N,𝒇
2) Write 𝜮𝑭 = 𝒎𝒂
3) Solve

EXAMPLE: A 5.1 kg block is in the air, being pulled vertically by a (massless) string. Find the block’s acceleration for each
of the following Tension forces.
a) T = 70N b) T = 30N

- If |Fup| |Fdown| ⇒ a = [ positive | negative | 0 | -g ] - If |Fup| |Fdown| ⇒ a = [ positive | negative | 0 | -g ]

c) T = 50N d) T = 0N

- If |Fup| |Fdown| ⇒ a = [ positive | negative | 0 | -g ] - If |Fup| ⇒ a = [ positive | negative | 0 | -g ]


(Assuming no other forces)

Page 6
Serway Calc - 10th edition - Physics for Scientists and Engineers
Ch.5 - Forces and Motion: Inertia, Acceleration, and Action-Reaction

PROBLEM: A 3-kg bucket is being pulled upwards by a cord. The tension in the cord is 35 N. What is the acceleration of the
bucket? (The mass of the cord is negligible, which means you can assume 𝑚𝑐𝑜𝑟𝑑 = 0.)
A) 25 m/s2 FORCES
B) 1.9 m/s2
1) Draw FBD: W,FA,T,N,𝒇
C) 21 m/s2
2) Write 𝜮𝑭 = 𝒎𝒂
D) 8.4 m/s2 3) Solve

PROBLEM: A 100-kg load of bricks is being lowered down on a cable at a speed of 5 m/s. If the load takes 2 s to slow from
that speed to a stop, what is the tension in the supporting cable during that time interval?
A) 1230 N
FORCES
B) 730 N
1) Draw FBD: W,FA,T,N,𝒇
C) 1480 N
2) Write 𝜮𝑭 = 𝒎𝒂
D) 980 N 3) Solve

Page 7
Serway Calc - 10th edition - Physics for Scientists and Engineers
Ch.5 - Forces and Motion: Inertia, Acceleration, and Action-Reaction

CONCEPT: EQUILIBRIUM

● IF all the forces acting on an object ___________, the object is at EQUILIBRIUM: _______ ⇔ _______
- Equilibrium DOESN’T mean an object isn’t moving (𝒗 = 0)! It means the object isn’t accelerating (𝒂 = __)!

Σ𝐹 = 𝑚𝑎 Σ𝐹 = 𝑚𝑎
- In some problems, you’ll know ΣF=0, - In other problems, you’ll know a=0,
which means _____ which means _____

EXAMPLE:
a) Two equal forces pull on a box moving at a b) A 2kg book rests on a table and stays
constant 5m/s. Assuming the box has no weight, at rest. Assuming the book has weight,
calculate the box’s acceleration. calculate the forces acting on the book. FORCES
1) Draw FBD:
F2 = 10 F1 = 10 W,FA,T,N,𝑓
2) Write 𝜮𝑭 = 𝒎𝒂
3) Solve

Page 8
Serway Calc - 10th edition - Physics for Scientists and Engineers
Ch.5 - Forces and Motion: Inertia, Acceleration, and Action-Reaction

PROBLEM: A 3-kg box of junk is being lowered on a string at a constant speed. What is the tension in the string?
A) 0N FORCES
B) 3N
1) Draw FBD: W,FA,T,N,𝒇
C) 29 N 2) Write 𝜮𝑭 = 𝒎𝒂
D) 32 N 3) Solve

PROBLEM: A loudspeaker is held in place by four vertical cables. The tension in each cable is 30 N. What is the mass of
the loudspeaker?
A) 3.06 kg FORCES
B) 12.2 kg 1) Draw FBD: W,FA,T,N,𝒇
2) Write 𝜮𝑭 = 𝒎𝒂
C) 30 kg
3) Solve
D) 120 kg

Page 9
Serway Calc - 10th edition - Physics for Scientists and Engineers
Ch.5 - Forces and Motion: Inertia, Acceleration, and Action-Reaction

CONCEPT: THE NORMAL FORCE

● IF anything is pushed against a surface in ANY direction, the surface pushes back with a force called ___________ (___).

- Normal is always ________________ (_____) to surface.


- NO EQUATION for ⃗𝑵
⃗ ! Always calculate ⃗𝑵
⃗ using ΣF=ma.

EXAMPLE:

a) A 2.04kg book rests b) You push the book down c) You pull the book up d) You pull up with 30N.
on a table. Calculate N. with 10N. Calculate N. with 15N. Calculate N. Calculate the acceleration.

- No other applied forces: - Push down (Fy along with mg): - Pull up, not enough to lift (|Fy| < |mg|): - Pull up, enough to lift (|Fy| ≥ |mg|):

N mg N mg N mg N

Page 10
Serway Calc - 10th edition - Physics for Scientists and Engineers
Ch.5 - Forces and Motion: Inertia, Acceleration, and Action-Reaction

PROBLEM: A 5 kg block is at rest on a horizontal surface. Using a string, you pull the block upwards with 3N. Find the
magnitude and direction of the force the surface exerts on the block.
E) 46 N upwards FORCES
F) 46 N downwards
1) Draw FBD: W,FA,T,N,𝒇
G) 49 N upwards 2) Write 𝜮𝑭 = 𝒎𝒂
H) 49 N downwards 3) Solve

Page 11
Serway Calc - 10th edition - Physics for Scientists and Engineers
Ch.5 - Forces and Motion: Inertia, Acceleration, and Action-Reaction

PROBLEM: A 7.1 kg crate sits on a platform which is accelerating upward at a rate of 3 m/s2. What force does the platform
exert on the crate?
A) 21 N FORCES
B) 48 N 1) Draw FBD: W,FA,T,N,𝒇
C) 70 N 2) Write 𝜮𝑭 = 𝒎𝒂
3) Solve
D) 91 N

Page 12
Serway Calc - 10th edition - Physics for Scientists and Engineers
Ch.5 - Forces and Motion: Inertia, Acceleration, and Action-Reaction

CONCEPT: NEWTON’S THIRD LAW

● Remember: Newton’s 1st Law: Law of Inertia, Newton’s 2nd Law: ΣF = ma

● Newton’s 3rd Law: Law of _______________________


- Every action (force) results in a ____________ of (1) equal ______________ but (2) opposite ____________.
- All forces exist in Action-Reaction force pairs, which (3) always act on _____________ objects.

𝑨
𝑩

𝑭___ = 𝑭___

EXAMPLE: You (80 kg) stand on a frozen lake with a 40kg ice block. You push the ice block with a force of 20N. Assuming
no friction, (a) what is the force the block exerts on you? (b) What is the block’s acceleration? (c) What is your acceleration?

FORCES WITH
MULTIPLE OBJECTS

For each object:

1) Draw FBD: W,FA,T,N,𝒇


2) Write 𝜮𝑭 = 𝒎𝒂
3) Solve

● Remember from ΣF = ma: Sum of all Forces [ ON | BY ] A = mass OF A × acceleration OF A

● Action-Reaction _________ mean 2 objects have the same acceleration! Acceleration is inversely proportional to mass.

Page 13
Serway Calc - 10th edition - Physics for Scientists and Engineers
Ch.5 - Forces and Motion: Inertia, Acceleration, and Action-Reaction

PROBLEM: Which of the options is NOT an action-reaction pair in the following situation? A book slides across the floor,
slowing down due to friction.
A) Friction on the book from the floor & friction on the floor from the book
B) Weight of the book from the Earth & gravitational force on the Earth from the book
C) Weight of the book & normal force on the book
D) Normal force on the book from the floor & normal force on the floor from the book

Page 14
Serway Calc - 10th edition - Physics for Scientists and Engineers
Ch.5 - Forces and Motion: Inertia, Acceleration, and Action-Reaction

CONCEPT: EQUILIBRIUM IN 2D

● 2D Equilibrium: all forces cancel out to ZERO in the ____ AND ____ axes. 𝐹𝑛𝑒𝑡,𝑥 = Σ𝐹𝑥 = ___ 𝐹𝑛𝑒𝑡,𝑦 = Σ𝐹𝑦 = ___
- Remember to decompose all 2D forces!

EXAMPLE: A 5kg box is suspended in place by 2 cables. Calculate the tension forces of both cables.

37° 2D FORCES
1) Draw FBD: W,FA,T,N,𝒇
2) Decompose 2D Forces
3) Write 𝜮𝑭 = 𝒎𝒂 in x & y
4) Solve

● If you get stuck when solving X & Y axis equations, go to the other axis.

Page 15
Serway Calc - 10th edition - Physics for Scientists and Engineers
Ch.5 - Forces and Motion: Inertia, Acceleration, and Action-Reaction

PROBLEM: A chandelier is supported from the ceiling by 2 chains. Both chains make a 30° angle with the vertical. The
tension in each chain is the same because of symmetry: T1=T2=50 N. What is the mass of the chandelier?
A) 2.6 kg
B) 8.8 kg 2D FORCES
C) 5.1 kg 1) Draw FBD
D) 4.4 kg 2) Write 𝜮𝑭 = 𝒎𝒂 in x & y
3) Solve

PROBLEM: A traffic signal is suspended from 3 cables as shown. The angles of the upper cables are θ1=22° and θ2=60°. If
the mass of the traffic signal is 8kg, what is the tension in cable 1?
E) 4.0 N 2D FORCES
F) 39.6 N θ2
θ1 1) Draw FBD
G) 73.4 N
2) Write 𝜮𝑭 = 𝒎𝒂 in x & y
H) 210 N
3) Solve

Page 16
Serway Calc - 10th edition - Physics for Scientists and Engineers
Ch.5 - Forces and Motion: Inertia, Acceleration, and Action-Reaction

PROBLEM: A sphere hangs suspended by a light string, resting against a vertical wall. The sphere has a mass of 2 kg and
the string makes an 80° angle with the horizontal. What is the force from the wall against the ball?
A) 2.2 N
B) 176 N 2D FORCES
C) 3.5 N 1) Draw FBD
D) 111 N 2) Write 𝜮𝑭 = 𝒎𝒂 in x & y
3) Solve

Page 17
Serway Calc - 10th edition - Physics for Scientists and Engineers
Ch.5 - Forces and Motion: Inertia, Acceleration, and Action-Reaction

CONCEPT: 2D FORCES IN HORIZONTAL PLANE

EXAMPLE: A 5kg block on a circular tabletop is pulled by 2 horizontal forces. If F1 = 2N along +x-axis and F2 = 5N at 37°,
find (a) 𝐹⃗ net, (b) ax, (c) ay, (d) a. +y

Side View Top View 2D FORCES


1) Draw FBD: W,FA,T,N,𝒇
2) Decompose 2D Forces
+x 3) Write 𝜮𝑭 = 𝒎𝒂 in x & y
4) Solve

x y
⃗⃗𝟏
𝑭
⃗𝑭⃗𝟐
⃗𝑭⃗𝒏𝒆𝒕 = ______

● IF applied forces act only in the horizontal plane, N = ____


- ΣFvert = 0 (in the side view), so vertical forces (weight, Normal) aren’t important.

● Because Forces = vectors, when a Force acts at an angle in 2D, we must ______________ it into its x & y components.
- If multiple forces acting, 𝐹𝑛𝑒𝑡 is always calculated using ____________________.

Page 18
Serway Calc - 10th edition - Physics for Scientists and Engineers
Ch.5 - Forces and Motion: Inertia, Acceleration, and Action-Reaction

PROBLEM: Three horizontal forces act on a box (mass = 8 kg) sitting on a smooth surface. F1 is 30 N acting at 53°
counterclockwise from the +x axis, F2 is 13 N acting at 67.4° clockwise from the +x axis, and F3 is 20 N directly along the -x
axis. What are the magnitude and direction of the box's acceleration?
2D FORCES
A) 1.5 m/s2, 14° ccw from +x-axis
B) 1.5 m/s2, 76° ccw from +x-axis 1) Draw FBD
C) 6.9 m/s , 1.1° cw from -x-axis
2 2) Write 𝜮𝑭 = 𝒎𝒂 in x & y
D) 6.9 m/s , 0.46° cw from -x-axis
2 3) Solve

y F1

53°
F3 x
67.4°

F2

Page 19
Serway Calc - 10th edition - Physics for Scientists and Engineers
Ch.5 - Forces and Motion: Inertia, Acceleration, and Action-Reaction

CONCEPT: SOLVING AN UNKNOWN 2D FORCE

● In some problems, you’ll have to solve for a Force without knowing its magnitude OR direction from the problem.
- When expanding ΣF=ma in X&Y, assume the components of unknown forces are _______________.

EXAMPLE: Three horizontal forces pull a 40kg block. F1 = 100N at 60° above the +x-axis, F2 = 70N along the -y axis. Find
the magnitude of the third force required so that the block accelerates at 2m/s2 only along the x-axis.
+y
F1 = 100N 2D FORCES
1) Draw FBD: W,FA,T,N,𝒇
2) Decompose 2D Forces
+y 60° 3) Write 𝜮𝑭 = 𝒎𝒂 in x & y
+x 4) Solve

F2 = 70N
+x
x y
⃗𝑭⃗𝟏
⃗𝑭⃗𝟐

⃗𝑭⃗𝒏𝒆𝒕 = ______

Page 20
Serway Calc - 10th edition - Physics for Scientists and Engineers
Ch.5 - Forces and Motion: Inertia, Acceleration, and Action-Reaction

CONCEPT: 2D FORCES IN HORIZONTAL & VERTICAL PLANES

EXAMPLE: A 5.1kg block on the floor is pulled by a 10N force 37° above the horizontal. Assuming no friction, find (a) the
Normal force on the block; (b) the block’s acceleration.

Side View +y Top View


2D FORCES
1) Draw FBD: W,FA,T,N,𝒇
Top View Top View 2) Decompose 2D Forces
3) Write 𝜮𝑭 = 𝒎𝒂 in x & y
4) Solve
+x

● IF applied forces act partially/completely vertically, then N ________.


- In most problems, Fup < Fdown, so the object is in equilibrium in the y-axis: ΣFy = 0 ⇔ ay = 0
FA
N
N FA

+x
+x
FA +x +x
mg mg mg

- Push down - Pull up, not enough to lift (Fup < Fdown) - Pull up, enough to lift (Fup > Fdown)
+x
N +xmg N +xmg N +x

+x

+x +x

Page 21
Serway Calc - 10th edition - Physics for Scientists and Engineers
Ch.5 - Forces and Motion: Inertia, Acceleration, and Action-Reaction

PROBLEM: You push a 5.1kg cart along the floor with an unknown force F at 30° below the horizontal. Using a scale, you
know the Normal force is 70N. What is the horizontal acceleration of the cart?
A) 7.84 m/s2 2D FORCES
B) 3.92 m/s2
1) Draw FBD: W,FA,T,N,𝒇
C) 6.79 m/s2 2) Decompose 2D Forces
D) 2.26 m/s2 3) Write 𝜮𝑭 = 𝒎𝒂 in x & y
4) Solve

Page 22
Serway Calc - 10th edition - Physics for Scientists and Engineers
Ch.5 - Forces and Motion: Inertia, Acceleration, and Action-Reaction

PROBLEM: You drop a 2-kg box straight down from the top of a building. A steady horizontal wind exerts a constant force
of 3 N on the box as it falls. (Ignore other air resistance.) What is the direction of the box's acceleration?
A) 1.4° below horizontal
B) 8.7° below horizontal 2D FORCES
C) 81° below horizontal 1) Draw FBD
D) 33° below horizontal 2) Write 𝜮𝑭 = 𝒎𝒂 in x & y
E) Not enough information to tell 3) Solve

Page 23
Serway Calc - 10th edition - Physics for Scientists and Engineers
Ch.5 - Forces and Motion: Inertia, Acceleration, and Action-Reaction

CONCEPT: SOLVING 1D MOTION PROBLEMS WITH FORCES

● Remember: Forces cause objects to accelerate, changing its speed or direction.


- To solve problems combining force variables & motion variables, use ________ and ______________________.

UAM EQs Motion Variables Force Variables


ሬԦ
𝒂 ሬԦ
𝒗
(1) 𝐯𝐱 = 𝐯𝟎𝐱 + 𝐚𝐱 𝐭 𝒗=0
(2) 𝐯𝐱𝟐 = 𝐯𝟎𝐱𝟐 + 𝟐𝐚𝐱 𝚫𝐱 m ሬ𝑭Ԧ
𝟏
(3) 𝚫𝐱 = 𝐯𝟎𝐱 𝐭 + 𝐚𝐱 𝐭 𝟐
𝜮𝑭 = 𝒎𝒂
𝟐
𝟏 𝚫𝒙, 𝚫𝐭
*(4) 𝚫𝐱 = (𝐯𝟎𝐱 + 𝐯𝐱 )𝐭
𝟐

- 5 variables, 3-4* EQs - 3 variables, 1 EQ


- Need 3/5 knowns - Need 2/3 knowns

EXAMPLE: A 20 kg block on a horizontal, frictionless surface is pushed and accelerates to 30m/s from rest in 6s. Calculate
the magnitude of the applied force exerted on the block.
FORCES
1) Draw FBD:
W,FA,T,N,𝑓
2) Write 𝜮𝑭 = 𝒎𝒂
3) Solve

● Acceleration 𝒂 is the ________ between force & motion problems.


- If you get “stuck” using F=ma, use UAM equations to solve, and vice versa!

Page 24
Serway Calc - 10th edition - Physics for Scientists and Engineers
Ch.5 - Forces and Motion: Inertia, Acceleration, and Action-Reaction

PROBLEM: An 800-kg car is traveling along a horizontal road directly towards a cliff. The driver notices and brakes,
resulting in a 5,000-N net force slowing the car down. If the car's initial speed was 20 m/s and the car stops just before
going over the cliff, how far away was the car from the cliff when the driver hit the brakes?

A) 1250 m UAM EQs


B) 0.03 m (1) 𝐯𝐱 = 𝐯𝟎𝐱 + 𝐚𝐱 𝐭
C) 64 m (2) 𝐯𝐱𝟐 = 𝐯𝟎𝐱𝟐 + 𝟐𝐚𝐱 𝚫𝐱
𝟏
D) 32 m (3) 𝚫𝐱 = 𝐯𝟎𝐱 𝐭 + 𝐚𝐱 𝐭 𝟐
𝟐
𝟏
*(4) 𝚫𝐱 = (𝐯𝟎𝐱 + 𝐯𝐱 )𝐭
𝟐

FORCES
1) Draw Free-Body Diagram
2) Write 𝜮𝑭 = 𝒎𝒂
3) Solve

PROBLEM: A 1000-kg rocket is taking off from rest, accelerating vertically upward. During the first 20 seconds of its motion,
the force of gravity on the rocket (acting downwards) is 10,000 N, the engines provide 25,000 N of thrust (upward), and the
average force of air resistance opposing the rocket's motion is 5,000 N. What is the rocket's velocity after 20 s?

A) 200 m/s UAM EQs


B) 400 m/s (1) 𝐯𝐱 = 𝐯𝟎𝐱 + 𝐚𝐱 𝐭
C) 600 m/s (2) 𝐯𝐱𝟐 = 𝐯𝟎𝐱𝟐 + 𝟐𝐚𝐱 𝚫𝐱
𝟏
D) 800 m/s (3) 𝚫𝐱 = 𝐯𝟎𝐱 𝐭 + 𝐚𝐱 𝐭 𝟐
𝟐
𝟏
*(4) 𝚫𝐱 = (𝐯𝟎𝐱 + 𝐯𝐱 )𝐭
𝟐

FORCES
1) Draw Free-Body Diagram
2) Write 𝜮𝑭 = 𝒎𝒂
3) Solve

Page 25
Serway Calc - 10th edition - Physics for Scientists and Engineers
Ch.5 - Forces and Motion: Inertia, Acceleration, and Action-Reaction

CONCEPT: FORCE PROBLEMS IN CONNECTED SYSTEMS OF OBJECTS (X-AXIS)

● IF objects are attached / connected to each other, they move together with same _____________ AND ____________.
𝑎1 𝑎2
v1 v2 = ⇒ 𝒂𝒔𝒚𝒔 = 𝒂
= ⇒ 𝒗𝒔𝒚𝒔 = 𝒗

EXAMPLE: Two blocks of mass 3kg and 5kg are connected to each other by a light (massless) string. Ignore all friction. If
you pull the 5kg block horizontally with a constant force of 30N, calculate (a) the acceleration of both blocks; (b) the Tension
on the string between the blocks
SYSTEMS OF OBJECTS
1) Draw FBDs for all objects
2) Choose direction of + (same as __)
3) Write ΣF=ma, starting with
_________ (________ Forces)
4) Solve a (EQ addition/substitution)
5) Plug a into equations,
solve other targets

● To solve these problems, you can choose either equation _______________ OR equation ________________.
- EQ Addition: line up equations top-to-bottom, then add & eliminate the non-target variable.
- EQ Substitution: usually plug simplest equation into the more complicated to eliminate non-target variable.

Page 26
Serway Calc - 10th edition - Physics for Scientists and Engineers
Ch.5 - Forces and Motion: Inertia, Acceleration, and Action-Reaction

PROBLEM: Three blocks hanging from the ceiling are all connected by massless strings. Find the magnitude of the Tension
in (a) the top-most string, and (b) the middle string

SYSTEMS OF OBJECTS
1) Draw FBDs for all objects
2) Determine direction of +
2
3) Write ΣF=ma, starting with
simplest (fewest Forces)
4) Solve a (EQ addition/substitution)
3 5) Plug a into equations,
solve other targets

● When objects hang by multiple ropes/strings, each tension has to support/pull the TOTAL weight _____________ it.

Page 27
Serway Calc - 10th edition - Physics for Scientists and Engineers
Ch.5 - Forces and Motion: Inertia, Acceleration, and Action-Reaction

CONCEPT: FORCES IN SYSTEMS OF OBJECTS WITH PULLEYS

● Remember! IF objects are connected to each other, they have the same acceleration AND velocity.
- To determine direction of +, if only 1 object is hanging, + is usually in the direction the _________ object will fall.
● For massless pulleys, the Tension on both objects points in different directions but has the ________ magnitude.

EXAMPLE: A 4kg block resting on a frictionless table is connected to a 2kg block hanging off the table by a cable and
massless pulley. Calculate (a) the acceleration of both blocks; (b) the Tension on the string between the blocks

SYSTEMS OF OBJECTS
1) Draw FBDs for all objects
2) Determine direction of +
3) Write ΣF=ma, starting with
simplest (fewest Forces)
4) Solve a (EQ addition/substitution)
5) Plug a into equations,
solve other targets

Page 28
Serway Calc - 10th edition - Physics for Scientists and Engineers
Ch.5 - Forces and Motion: Inertia, Acceleration, and Action-Reaction

PROBLEM: Two blocks are connected by a light cord passing over a pulley. This setup is known as an Atwood Machine. If
the larger block is 6kg and the smaller is 4kg, find (a) the acceleration of the system and (b) the Tension in the cord.

SYSTEMS OF OBJECTS
1) Draw FBDs for all objects
2) Determine direction of +
3) Write ΣF=ma, starting with
simplest (fewest Forces)
4) Solve a (EQ addition/substitution)
5) Plug a into equations,
solve other targets

● The direction of + is usually the direction the ___________ object will fall.

Page 29
Serway Calc - 10th edition - Physics for Scientists and Engineers
Ch.5 - Forces and Motion: Inertia, Acceleration, and Action-Reaction

CONCEPT: COMBINING CONNECTED SYSTEMS OF OBJECTS INTO A SINGLE OBJECT TO SOLVE

● When solving for 𝒂, a useful shortcut is to ____________ all masses (mA, mB,…) → single object (M=mA+mB…).
- When doing this, ignore any Tensions or Normals _____________ the objects (i.e any connecting forces).

EXAMPLE: A 3kg and 5kg block are connected by a EXAMPLE: A 4kg block is connected via rope and pulley
string. If the 5kg is pulled to the right with 30N, calculate to a 2kg block hanging off a table. Calculate the
the acceleration of the system. acceleration of the system.

⇒ ⇒

EXAMPLE: Calculate the acceleration of the system. EXAMPLE: Calculate the acceleration of the system.
F=40
3 5
2

4
6

Page 30
Serway Calc - 10th edition - Physics for Scientists and Engineers
Ch.5 - Forces and Motion: Inertia, Acceleration, and Action-Reaction

PROBLEM: Two blocks connected by a string are pulled vertically upwards by a thick rope with a force of 100N. If the larger
block is 3kg and the smaller block is 2kg, calculate the acceleration of the blocks and the Tension in the connecting string.

● When using the shortcut, if asked for a connecting/“internal” force, draw a FBD and write ΣF=ma for the ________ object.

Page 31
Serway Calc - 10th edition - Physics for Scientists and Engineers
Ch.5 - Forces and Motion: Inertia, Acceleration, and Action-Reaction

CONCEPT: INCLINED PLANES OR RAMPS

● When objects are on Inclined Planes, we “tilt” the X-Y plane to line up the new X-axis ___________ to the incline’s slope.
- After “tilting”, ____ MUST be decomposed.
- Components of mg are __________ from the usual component EQs for Forces: mgx goes with [ SIN | COS ]
mgy goes with [ SIN | COS ]
F
Fx = Fcos(θx) mgx = _________
θx Fy = Fsin(θx) mgy = _________

EXAMPLE: You release a 5kg block on a frictionless incline which is angled at 37° above the horizontal. (a) Draw the FBD.
(b) Calculate the block’s acceleration down the incline. (c) Write an expression for the Normal force.
+y
INCLINED PLANES
1) Draw FBD
2) Tilt X & Y axes
3) Write 𝜮𝑭 = 𝒎𝒂
+x 4) Solve

𝜽𝒙

● Acceleration on inclined planes always happens only on the ___ axis, since 𝒂𝒚 = ___ (ΣFy = ___)

- If no other forces act on an object on an inclined plane, its acceleration depends only on θ: 𝒂 = _______
[No other Forces]

Page 32
Serway Calc - 10th edition - Physics for Scientists and Engineers
Ch.5 - Forces and Motion: Inertia, Acceleration, and Action-Reaction

PROBLEM: A 4.0-kg box sits on a frictionless inclined plane that makes a 21° angle with the horizontal. It is held in place by
a cord parallel to the plane. Calculate the tension in the cord.
A) 14 N INCLINED PLANES
B) 37 N 1) Draw FBD
2) Tilt X & Y axes
C) 33 N
3) Write 𝜮𝑭 = 𝒎𝒂
D) 21 N 4) Solve

PROBLEM: Mountain highways sometimes have "runaway ramps" for large trucks whose brakes fail. If a truck is moving at
18 m/s, and the escape ramp has a 20% uphill grade, how long should the ramp be to bring the truck to a stop?
E) 338 m
INCLINED PLANES
F) 169 m
1) Draw FBD
G) 84 m 2) Tilt X & Y axes
H) 17 m 3) Write 𝜮𝑭 = 𝒎𝒂
4) Solve

● When incline angles are given as %, always convert it to a decimal and then to degrees: 𝜽𝒙 (°) = _______
_______

Page 33
Serway Calc - 10th edition - Physics for Scientists and Engineers
Ch.5 - Forces and Motion: Inertia, Acceleration, and Action-Reaction

PROBLEM: In the figure, block A hangs from a cord that passes over a pulley and connects it to block B, sitting on a
frictionless ramp. mA=2 kg, mB=5 kg, and θ=53°. What is the magnitude of the blocks' acceleration?
I) 4.8 m/s2 CONNECTED SYSTEMS ON INC.
J) 2.8 m/s2 PLANES
K) 6.5 m/s2 1) Draw FBD (tilt x&y axes on inclines)
L) 8.4 m/s2 B 2) Choose direction of +
3) Write 𝜮𝑭 = 𝒎𝒂, start with simplest obj.
4) Solve 𝒂 (EQ addition / substitution)
5) Plug 𝒂 into EQs, solve other targets

Page 34
Serway Calc - 10th edition - Physics for Scientists and Engineers
Ch.5 - Forces and Motion: Inertia, Acceleration, and Action-Reaction

CONCEPT: KINETIC FRICTION

● Kinetic friction (____) is a resisting force that occurs when rough surfaces _____________________ against each other.
- 𝒇𝒌 tries to _______ all motion between the surfaces, so its direction is always ____________ of 𝑣⃗.

⃗⃗
𝒗 ⃗⃗
𝒗
𝒇𝒌 = _______

- μk = _____________ of kinetic friction: measure of roughness between 2 surfaces, unitless # between __ & __,
Perfectly smooth surfaces: μk is [ ZERO | LOW | HIGH ]
Ice rubbing on ice: μk is [ ZERO | LOW | HIGH ]
Cinderblock on cinderblock: μk is [ ZERO | LOW | HIGH ]

EXAMPLE: A 10-kg box moves on a flat surface at 2 m/s. The coefficient of kinetic friction between the box and the surface
is 0.4. Calculate (a) the kinetic friction force acting on the box and (b) the acceleration of the box.

FORCES
1) Draw FBD
2) Write 𝜮𝑭 = 𝒎𝒂
3) Solve

Page 35
Serway Calc - 10th edition - Physics for Scientists and Engineers
Ch.5 - Forces and Motion: Inertia, Acceleration, and Action-Reaction

PROBLEM: Pushing a 10-kg toolbox across the floor, you find that the box moves at a constant speed when you push
horizontally with a force of 39 N. What is the coefficient of kinetic friction between the floor and the toolbox?
A) 0.2 FORCES
B) 0.4
1) Draw FBD
C) 2.5
2) Write 𝜮𝑭 = 𝒎𝒂
3) Solve

PROBLEM: You push on a 3-kg box to give it an initial speed of 5 m/s across a floor. If μk = 0.3, how far does the box travel
before coming to a stop?
A) 8.6 m FORCES
B) 2.9 m 1) Draw FBD
2) Write 𝜮𝑭 = 𝒎𝒂
C) 7.7 m
3) Solve
D) 4.3 m

Page 36
Serway Calc - 10th edition - Physics for Scientists and Engineers
Ch.5 - Forces and Motion: Inertia, Acceleration, and Action-Reaction

EXAMPLE: A 20-kg box moving along the floor has a downward force of 30N acting on it. How hard must you push the box
horizontally to keep the box moving at a constant 2m/s if the coefficient of kinetic friction μk is 0.3?
A) 67.8 N FORCES
B) 58.8 N
1) Draw FBD
C) 49.8 N
2) Write 𝜮𝑭 = 𝒎𝒂
D) 30 N
3) Solve

● Never assume that N = mg, therefore 𝒇𝒌 = 𝝁(𝒎𝒈)! Remember to always calculate N using ΣF = ma.

Page 37
Serway Calc - 10th edition - Physics for Scientists and Engineers
Ch.5 - Forces and Motion: Inertia, Acceleration, and Action-Reaction

CONCEPT: STATIC FRICTION

● Static Friction is another type of friction similar to kinetic friction.

KINETIC FRICTION STATIC FRICTION



𝒗 𝑭
𝒇𝒌

● When 𝑣 ≠ 0 ● When 𝑣 ___ 0


● Tries to stop objects already moving ● Tries to _________ an object from starting to move
● Direction: opposite of motion (𝒗
⃗) ● Direction: __________ to where the object would move without friction.
*
𝒇𝒌 = 𝝁𝒌 𝑵 𝒇𝒔,______ = ______ , μs = coeff. of static friction; μs always __ μk

EXAMPLE: A 5.1kg block is at rest on the floor. The coefficients of static & kinetic friction are 0.6 and 0.3, respectively.
Determine the magnitude of the friction force on the block when you push it with a force of:

a) F = 20N b) F = 40N
𝑭 𝑭

● μsN is a threshold: the force you must overcome to get an object moving, so μsN is the _____ value of 𝒇𝒔 : 𝒇𝒔,______ =_____
- This is NOT always the actual friction acting on an object. To determine if 𝒇𝒔 vs. 𝒇𝒌 , compare F to fs,max:

IS F STRONG ENOUGH TO GET OBJECT MOVING?


NO (F ___ 𝒇𝒔,𝒎𝒂𝒙 ) YES (F ___ 𝒇𝒔,𝒎𝒂𝒙 )
Object… [ STAYS AT REST | STARTS MOVING ] [ STAYS AT REST | STARTS MOVING ]
Friction is… [ STATIC (𝒇𝒔 ) | KINETIC (𝒇𝒌 ) ] [ STATIC (𝒇𝒔 ) | KINETIC (𝒇𝒌 ) ]
threshold

𝒇𝒔 = ___ 𝒇𝒔,𝒎𝒂𝒙 𝒇𝒌 = _____

𝑭=10 𝑭=20 𝑭=30 𝑭=40 𝑭=50

Page 38
Serway Calc - 10th edition - Physics for Scientists and Engineers
Ch.5 - Forces and Motion: Inertia, Acceleration, and Action-Reaction

PROBLEM: A 5.1 kg block is at rest on the floor. The coefficients of static & kinetic friction are μs = 0.7 and μk = 0.5.
Calculate the force needed to get the block moving, and the force needed to keep it moving at constant speed.
A) F = 0.014 N; F = 0.01 N
B) F = 3.57 N; F = 2.55 N FRICTION
C) F = 35; F = 25 1) Draw FBD
D) Impossible to tell 2) Determine if 𝒇 = 𝒇𝒔 or 𝒇𝒌 from text or:
If ΣFs on axis of motion > fs,max, 𝒇 = 𝒇𝒌
3) Write 𝜮𝑭 = 𝒎𝒂
4) Solve

● Remember: μs ≥ μk! It’s always harder to [ GET | KEEP ] something moving than it is to [ GET | KEEP ] it moving.

PROBLEM: A 15 kg block is initially at rest on a horizontal surface. The coefficient of static friction between the block and
the surface is μs=0.7. How hard must you push down on the block to keep a 300 N horizontal force from moving it?
A) 147 N FRICTION
B) 210 N
1) Draw FBD
C) 282 N 2) Determine if 𝒇 = 𝒇𝒔 or 𝒇𝒌 from text or:
D) 429 N If ΣFs on axis of motion > fs,max, 𝒇 = 𝒇𝒌
3) Write 𝜮𝑭 = 𝒎𝒂
4) Solve

Page 39
Serway Calc - 10th edition - Physics for Scientists and Engineers
Ch.5 - Forces and Motion: Inertia, Acceleration, and Action-Reaction

PROBLEM: A 36N force is needed to start a 7.0 kg box moving across the floor. If the 36.0 N force continues, the box
accelerates at 0.70 m/s2. What are the coefficients of static and kinetic friction?
E) μs=0.52 and μk=0.64 FRICTION
F) μs=0.64 and μk=0.64 1) Draw FBD
G) μs=0.52 and μk=0.45 2) Determine if 𝒇 = 𝒇𝒔 or 𝒇𝒌 from text or:
H) μs=0.45 and μk=0.32 If ΣFs on axis of motion > fs,max, 𝒇 = 𝒇𝒌
3) Write 𝜮𝑭 = 𝒎𝒂
4) Solve

Page 40
Serway Calc - 10th edition - Physics for Scientists and Engineers
Ch.5 - Forces and Motion: Inertia, Acceleration, and Action-Reaction

CONCEPT: STACKED BLOCKS

● When objects are stacked on top of each other, the force that causes the top objects to move is __________________.
- Unlike for previous problems, friction acts in the [ SAME | OPPOSITE ] direction as the direction of motion!
- Friction is [ KINETIC | STATIC ] when the relative velocity between 2 surfaces is [ NOT ZERO | ZERO ].
- Friction is [ KINETIC | STATIC ] when the relative velocity between 2 surfaces is [ NOT ZERO | ZERO ].

EXAMPLE: A 10kg box rests on a frictionless floor, with a 5kg box on top of it. The coefficients of friction between the
boxes are μs = 0.7 and μk = 0.3. You pull the bottom box with a force F. What is the maximum acceleration the bottom box
can have so that the 2 boxes remain moving together, i.e. the top box does not slide on the bottom box?

CONNECTED OBJECTS + FRICTION


1) Draw FBD for all obj’s, choose direction of +
2) Determine if 𝒇 = 𝒇𝒔 or 𝒇𝒌 from text or:
If ΣFs on axis of motion > fs,max, 𝒇 = 𝒇𝒌
3) Write ΣF=ma, start with simplest (fewest Fs)
4) Solve a (EQ Addition / Substitution)
5) Plug a into eq’s, solve other targets if needed

● The friction between the stacked blocks always depends on the ___________ between the blocks.

Page 41
Serway Calc - 10th edition - Physics for Scientists and Engineers
Ch.5 - Forces and Motion: Inertia, Acceleration, and Action-Reaction

PROBLEM: A 5kg block A is placed on a 10kg block B. Block A is tied to a wall, while Block B is pulled with a Force of 45N
and moves to the right. The coefficient of kinetic friction between
all surfaces is μk = 0.2. What is the Tension on Block A?
A) 45 N CONNECTED OBJECTS + FRICTION
B) 9.8 N 1) Draw FBD for all obj’s, choose direction of +
C) 49 N 2) Determine if 𝒇 = 𝒇𝒔 or 𝒇𝒌 from text or:
D) 1.8 N A If ΣFs on axis of motion > fs,max, 𝒇 = 𝒇𝒌
3) Write ΣF=ma, start with simplest (fewest Fs)
𝑭
B 4) Solve a (EQ Addition / Substitution)
5) Plug a into eq’s, solve other targets if needed

Page 42
Serway Calc - 10th edition - Physics for Scientists and Engineers
Ch.5 - Forces and Motion: Inertia, Acceleration, and Action-Reaction

PROBLEM: A 4kg block sits on top of a 6kg block which is on a frictionless surface. The coefficients of friction between the
two blocks are μs=0.5 and μk=0.3. Calculate the maximum force you can pull on the bottom block with so that the objects
move together.
E) 49 N CONNECTED OBJECTS + FRICTION
F) 19.6 N
1) Draw FBD for all obj’s, choose direction of +
G) 3.27 N 2) Determine if 𝒇 = 𝒇𝒔 or 𝒇𝒌 from text or:
H) 4.9 N If ΣFs on axis of motion > fs,max, 𝒇 = 𝒇𝒌
3) Write ΣF=ma, start with simplest (fewest Fs)
4) Solve a (EQ Addition / Substitution)
5) Plug a into eq’s, solve other targets if needed

Page 43
Serway Calc - 10th edition - Physics for Scientists and Engineers
Ch.5 - Forces and Motion: Inertia, Acceleration, and Action-Reaction

CONCEPT: SOLVING INCLINED PLANE PROBLEMS WITH FRICTION

● You’ll need to solve problems with objects on inclined planes WITH friction.
- Remember: To determine if objects begin moving, compare all non-friction forces ALONG the axis of motion to ____.

EXAMPLE: You release a 10kg block on ramp inclined at 37°. The coefficients of friction are μs = 0.6 and μk = 0.4.
a) Calculate the friction force acting on the block when it is released. b) Calculate the block’s acceleration.

INC. PLANES + FRICTION


1) Draw FBD (tilt x&y axes on inclines)
2) Determine if 𝒇 = 𝒇𝒔 or 𝒇𝒌 from text or:
If ΣFs on axis of motion > fs,max, 𝒇 = 𝒇𝒌
3) Write 𝜮𝑭 = 𝒎𝒂
4) Solve

Page 44
Serway Calc - 10th edition - Physics for Scientists and Engineers
Ch.5 - Forces and Motion: Inertia, Acceleration, and Action-Reaction

PROBLEM: You attempt to push a 20-kg box up a ramp into a moving truck, applying a 110-N force parallel to the incline.
The ramp is angled at 15°. The coefficients of friction between the box and the ramp are μ s=0.3 and μk=0.2. What are the
magnitude and direction of the box's acceleration?
A) 0 m/s2 (no direction) INC. PLANES + FRICTION
B) 0.1 m/s2 up the ramp 1) Draw FBD (tilt x&y axes on inclines)
2) Determine if 𝒇 = 𝒇𝒔 or 𝒇𝒌 from text or:
C) 1.1 m/s2 up the ramp If ΣFs on axis of motion > fs,max, 𝒇 = 𝒇𝒌
D) 4.5 m/s2 down the ramp 3) Write 𝜮𝑭 = 𝒎𝒂
4) Solve

● If the direction of 𝒇 isn’t known, find the net of all non-friction forces along axis of motion. 𝒇 will be ___________ to that.

Page 45
Serway Calc - 10th edition - Physics for Scientists and Engineers
Ch.5 - Forces and Motion: Inertia, Acceleration, and Action-Reaction

PROBLEM: A 2.0-kg block is launched up 40° ramp at 10 m/s. If the block comes to a stop when it reaches a point 3 m
vertically above the bottom of the ramp, calculate the coefficient of kinetic friction between the block and the ramp.
A) 0.45
B) 0.51 INC. PLANES + FRICTION
C) 0.59 1) Draw FBD (tilt x&y axes on inclines)
2) Determine if 𝒇 = 𝒇𝒔 or 𝒇𝒌 from text or:
D) 0.67 If ΣFs on axis of motion > fs,max, 𝒇 = 𝒇𝒌
3) Write 𝜮𝑭 = 𝒎𝒂
4) Solve

Page 46
Serway Calc - 10th edition - Physics for Scientists and Engineers
Ch.5 - Forces and Motion: Inertia, Acceleration, and Action-Reaction

PROBLEM: You push a 30kg mini-fridge up a 20° incline. Your push is 120N angled 30° above the axis of the incline. If
the coefficients of friction between the box and the ramp are μs=0.3 and μk=0.2, what is the box's acceleration?
A) 0 m/s2 (no direction)
B) 0.1 m/s2 up the ramp INC. PLANES + FRICTION
C) 1.1 m/s2 up the ramp 1) Draw FBD (tilt x&y axes on inclines)
2) Determine if 𝒇 = 𝒇𝒔 or 𝒇𝒌 from text or:
D) 4.5 m/s2 down the ramp If ΣFs on axis of motion > fs,max, 𝒇 = 𝒇𝒌
3) Write 𝜮𝑭 = 𝒎𝒂
4) Solve

Page 47
Serway Calc - 10th edition - Physics for Scientists and Engineers
Ch.5 - Forces and Motion: Inertia, Acceleration, and Action-Reaction

CONCEPT: CRITICAL ANGLES ON ROUGH INCLINED PLANES

● For objects on rough inclines, there are 2 special angles called _________ angles:
- For both critical angles, 𝒂 = ___.

1) θcrit,s → block “STARTS sliding”: ____ = ______ 2) θcrit,k → block “slides at constant speed”: ____ = ____

𝜽𝒄𝒓𝒊𝒕,𝒔 = _______ ⇔ 𝝁𝒔 = _________ 𝜽𝒄𝒓𝒊𝒕,𝒌 = _______ ⇔ 𝝁𝒌 = _________

EXAMPLE: You place a 6kg block on an adjustable ramp, then EXAMPLE: Using the same ramp, once the block begins
tilt the angle of the ramp very slowly until the block suddenly sliding you tilt the ramp so that the block slides down at
starts sliding. If μs = 0.75, calculate this special angle. constant speed. If μk = 0.31, calculate this special angle.


𝒗

● For critical angles, (1) μs & θcrit,s and (2) μk & θcrit,k only depend on each other, not on any other variable (e.g. mass).

Page 48
Serway Calc - 10th edition - Physics for Scientists and Engineers
Ch.5 - Forces and Motion: Inertia, Acceleration, and Action-Reaction

PROBLEM: A 3-kg block is at rest on an adjustable ramp. When the ramp is tilted to a 20° angle, the block slides with a
constant velocity. What is the coefficient of kinetic friction between the ramp and the block?
A) μk=0.24
B) μk=0.36 𝜽𝒄𝒓𝒊𝒕,𝒔 = tan−1 (𝜇𝑠 )
C) μk=0.52 𝝁𝒔 = tan⁡(𝜃𝑐𝑟𝑖𝑡,𝑠 )
D) Not enough information given 𝜽𝒄𝒓𝒊𝒕,𝒌 = tan−1 (𝜇𝑘 )
𝝁𝒌 = tan⁡(𝜃𝑐𝑟𝑖𝑡,𝑘 )

PROBLEM: In the afternoon, a car is parked on a street that runs down a steep hill, at an angle of 35.0° relative to the
horizontal. After a snowstorm hits the area, and the road becomes icy and just slippery enough for the car to slide
downhill. What is the coefficient of static friction between the car tires and the icy road?
A) μs=0.47 𝜽𝒄𝒓𝒊𝒕,𝒔 = tan−1 (𝜇𝑠 )
B) μs=0.70 𝝁𝒔 = tan⁡(𝜃𝑐𝑟𝑖𝑡,𝑠 )
C) μs=1.54
𝜽𝒄𝒓𝒊𝒕,𝒌 = tan−1 (𝜇𝑘 )
D) Not enough information given 𝝁 = tan⁡(𝜃 )
𝒌 𝑐𝑟𝑖𝑡,𝑘

Page 49
Serway Calc - 10th edition - Physics for Scientists and Engineers
Ch.5 - Forces and Motion: Inertia, Acceleration, and Action-Reaction

CONCEPT: CONNECTED SYSTEMS OF OBJECTS WITH FRICTION

● If 2+ objects are connected and friction is NOT negligible, you’ll have to consider the friction on _______ object.
- Remember: Connected objects have the same 𝒗
⃗ and 𝒂
⃗!

EXAMPLE: A 10kg block is tied via a string to a 5kg block on a rough table where μs = 0.5 and μk = 0.3. If you pull on the
10kg block with 90N, and the objects start moving, a) Draw FBDs for both blocks; b) find the acceleration of the blocks.

CONNECTED OBJECTS + FRICTION


1) Draw FBD for all obj’s, choose direction of +
5 10 2) Determine if 𝒇 = 𝒇𝒔 or 𝒇𝒌 from text or:
If ΣFs on axis of motion > fs,max, 𝒇 = 𝒇𝒌
3) Write ΣF=ma, start with simplest (fewest Fs)
4) Solve a (EQ Addition / Substitution)
5) Plug a into eq’s, solve other targets if needed

Page 50
Serway Calc - 10th edition - Physics for Scientists and Engineers
Ch.5 - Forces and Motion: Inertia, Acceleration, and Action-Reaction

PROBLEM: Two blocks are connected by a cord over a pulley. Block A rests on a rough tabletop. Block B has mass
mB=2kg and hangs over the edge of the table. The coefficients of friction between Block A and the tabletop are μs=0.6 and
μk=0.4. What is the minimum mass Block A can have to keep the system from starting to move?
A) 3.33 kg
CONNECTED OBJECTS + FRICTION
B) 5 kg
1) Draw FBD for all obj’s, choose direction of +
C) 32.7 kg
2) Determine if 𝒇 = 𝒇𝒔 or 𝒇𝒌 from text or:
If ΣFs on axis of motion > fs,max, 𝒇 = 𝒇𝒌
3) Write ΣF=ma, start with simplest (fewest Fs)
4) Solve a (EQ Addition / Substitution)
5) Plug a into eq’s, solve other targets if needed

Page 51
Serway Calc - 10th edition - Physics for Scientists and Engineers
Ch.5 - Forces and Motion: Inertia, Acceleration, and Action-Reaction

CONCEPT: CONNECTED OBJECTS ON INCLINED PLANES WITH FRICTION

● Some problems will combine multiple objects on ramps with friction! Usually, you’ll know which kind of friction is acting.
- To solve, use all the problem-solving steps for systems of objects, inclined planes, and friction.

EXAMPLE: Two blocks are connected by a cable & massless pulley. Block B pulls Block A, which moves up the 30° incline.
Block B weighs 100N (mB = 10.2kg), block A weighs 40N (mA = 4.1kg). If μk = 0.15, find the acceleration of the system.

CONNECTED OBJECTS + INCLINED


PLANES + FRICTION
1) Draw FBD for all obj’s, choose direction of +
B 2) Determine if 𝒇 = 𝒇𝒔 or 𝒇𝒌 from text or:
If ΣFs on axis of motion > fs,max, 𝒇 = 𝒇𝒌
3) Write ΣF=ma, start with simplest (fewest Fs)
4) Solve a (EQ Addition / Substitution)
5) Plug a into eq’s, solve other targets if needed

Page 52
Serway Calc - 10th edition - Physics for Scientists and Engineers
Ch.5 - Forces and Motion: Inertia, Acceleration, and Action-Reaction

PROBLEM: Two blocks made of different materials, connected by a string, slide down a 30° inclined plane . Block A has
mass 8kg, and the coefficient of kinetic friction between Block A and the incline is 0.35. Block B has mass 4kg, and the
coefficient of friction between block B and the plane is 0.25. After the blocks are released, find the tension in the cord.
A) 1.23 N CONNECTED OBJECTS + INCLINED
B) 2.21 N PLANES + FRICTION
C) 1.67 N 1) Draw FBD for all obj’s, choose direction of +
D) 2.28 N 2) Determine if 𝒇 = 𝒇𝒔 or 𝒇𝒌 from text or:
If ΣFs on axis of motion > fs,max, 𝒇 = 𝒇𝒌
θ 3) Write ΣF=ma, start with simplest (fewest Fs)
4) Solve a (EQ Addition / Substitution)
5) Plug a into eq’s, solve other targets if needed

Page 53
Serway Calc - 10th edition - Physics for Scientists and Engineers
Ch.5 - Forces and Motion: Inertia, Acceleration, and Action-Reaction

PROBLEM: Two blocks, A and B, sit on back-to-back rough inclined planes and are connected to each other by a cable.
The angles of the planes are θA=15° and θB=30°. The masses of the blocks are mA=2kg and mB=5kg, and μk=0.2. When the
blocks are released from rest and begin moving, what is the magnitude of their acceleration?
A) 2.47 m/s2 CONNECTED OBJECTS + INCLINED
B) 1.02 m/s2 PLANES + FRICTION
C) 3.45 m/s2 1) Draw FBD for all obj’s, choose direction of +
D) 10.5 m/s2 2) Determine if 𝒇 = 𝒇𝒔 or 𝒇𝒌 from text or:
If ΣFs on axis of motion > fs,max, 𝒇 = 𝒇𝒌
3) Write ΣF=ma, start with simplest (fewest Fs)
4) Solve a (EQ Addition / Substitution)
5) Plug a into eq’s, solve other targets if needed

θA θB

Page 54

You might also like