Question

A 200 N trash can is pulled across the sidewalk by a person at constant speed by a force of 75 N. What is the coefficient of friction between the trash can and the sidewalk in the problem above.

Answer 1

μ = 0.375

Step-by-step explanation:

F = Applied force on the trash can = 75 N

W = weight of the trash can = 200 N

f = frictional force acting on trash can

Since the trash can moves at constant speed, force equation for the motion of can is given as

F - f = 0

75 - f = 0

f = 75 N

μ = Coefficient of friction

frictional force is given as

f = μ W

75 = μ (200)

μ = 0.375