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PhysicsClassical Physics

Static Friction Formula: Maximum Push on a 120 kg Crate

Find the maximum static friction for a 120 kg crate, then use kinetic friction to calculate its acceleration once it slips.

Question

A 120 kg120\,\mathrm{kg} wooden crate sits on a wooden floor. For these surfaces, μs=0.500\mu_s=0.500 and the sliding-friction coefficient is μk=0.300\mu_k=0.300.

(a) Find the largest horizontal push the crate can withstand while remaining at rest.

(b) If that same push is maintained after slipping begins, determine the crate's acceleration.

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Evidence boundary

This answers Chapter 6 Problem 48 using the coefficients explicitly supplied in that University Physics version: μs = 0.500 and μk = 0.300. It assumes a horizontal push, level floor, g = 9.80 m/s² and the ideal dry-friction model. The calculation is a theoretical threshold, not a measured breaking-away force.