Final answer:
The friction force holding the box in place can be determined using the coefficient of friction and the normal force. In this case, the friction force is approximately 29.1 N (option C).
Step-by-step explanation:
The friction force holding the box in place can be determined using the equation:
friction force = coefficient of friction x normal force
In this case, the normal force is equal to the weight of the box, which can be calculated using the equation:
weight = mass x gravity
Given that the mass of the box is 54.7 kg and the angle of the inclined plane is 5 degrees, we can find the normal force:
normal force = weight x cos(angle)
Finally, the friction force can be calculated as:
friction force = coefficient of friction x normal force
Plugging in the values:
friction force = 0.4 x (54.7 kg x 9.8 m/s^2) x cos(5 degrees)
After calculating, the friction force holding the box in place is approximately 29.1 N (option C).