Final answer:
The frictional force acting on the box can be determined using the coefficients of static and kinetic friction. In this case, since the box is placed on a surface, the static friction needs to be calculated. The maximum force of static friction can be found by multiplying the coefficient of static friction by the weight of the box. (Option B).
Step-by-step explanation:
The frictional force acting on the box can be determined by using the coefficients of static and kinetic friction. The coefficient of static friction is used when an object is at rest, while the coefficient of kinetic friction is used when an object is in motion. In this case, since the box is placed on a surface, we need to determine the static friction.
The maximum force of static friction can be calculated by multiplying the coefficient of static friction by the normal force. The normal force is equal to the weight of the box, which can be determined by multiplying the mass of the box by the acceleration due to gravity (9.8 m/s²).
If the coefficient of static friction is given as 0.700, then the maximum force of static friction can be found by multiplying 0.700 by the weight of the box. So, the maximum force of static friction is 0.700 * (20 kg * 9.8 m/s²) = 137 N. As long as the force applied to the box (P) is less than 137 N, the force of static friction will keep the box stationary.
Therefore, the answer is option B) Static friction.