Question

Part C

Increase the value of the Applied Force to 150 N. Pause the simulation and observe the magnitudes and directions of the applied force, the friction
force, and the sum of forces. Why do you think the crate moves this time?

Answer 1

When the applied force is 150 N, it is enough to overcome the frictional force. The net force, F sum, is in the direction of motion. Therefore, the small but constant net force produces a constant acceleration on the crate.

Step-by-step explanation:

Answer 2

The crate moves this time because the applied force of 150 N is greater than the maximum static friction force that opposes the motion of the crate. Static friction is a force that opposes the relative motion between two objects in contact. The maximum static friction force is determined by the normal force and the coefficient of static friction between the two surfaces in contact. The harder the surfaces are pushed together, the more force is needed to move them. When the applied force exceeds the maximum static friction force, the crate will start to move. Once in motion, it is easier to keep it in motion than it was to get it started because the kinetic friction force is less than the static friction force.