Question

What is the coefficient of friction between a 100 kg box and a flat floor if it takes 300 N of force to move the box across the floor at a constant speed?

A) 0.03
B) 0.30
C) 3.00
D) 30.00

Answer 1

The coefficient of friction between the box and the floor is calculated to be approximately 0.306, so the closest given answer is option B) 0.30.

Step-by-step explanation:

The coefficient of friction between a 100 kg box and a flat floor, when it takes 300 N of force to move the box across the floor at a constant speed, can be calculated using the formula

frictional force (f) = coefficient of friction (μ) x normal force (N).

Since the force required to move the box at a constant speed represents the kinetic frictional force, and the normal force is equal to the weight of the box (mg = 100 kg x 9.80 m/s2 = 980 N),

we can rearrange the formula to solve for the coefficient of kinetic friction (μk).

μk = f / N = 300 N / 980 N,

which simplifies to approximately 0.306. Therefore, the closest answer among the options provided is option B) 0.30.