Question

A 2.303 kg book is placed on a flat desk. Suppose the coefficient of static friction between the book and the desk is 0.6. What is the maximum force of static friction that can act on the book?

1) 1.38 N
2) 2.76 N
3) 3.45 N
4) 4.61 N

Answer 1

To calculate the maximum static friction for the book, we multiply its weight by the coefficient of static friction. However, the resulting value of 13.54164 N is not among the options given, indicating a possible error in the question's options.

Step-by-step explanation:

To determine the maximum force of static friction that can act on the book, we need to use the formula fs-max = μsN, where μs is the coefficient of static friction and N is the normal force (which is equal to the weight of the book if there is no other vertical force acting on it).

The weight of the book (which is the normal force, N, in this case) can be found by multiplying the mass of the book by the acceleration due to gravity: N = mg = (2.303 kg)(9.80 m/s^2).

Upon calculation, N = 22.5694 N. Now applying the coefficient of static friction, fs-max = 0.6 × 22.5694 N = 13.54164 N. Since the force of static friction prevents the object from moving until it reaches its maximum value, the maximum force of static friction that can act on the book is therefore 13.54164 N, which is not listed in the options provided by the student. It seems there was an error in the options of the question.