(a) 44 cos x = 28 (horizontal equlibrium)
Solve for the angle x.
x = cos^-1 28/44 = 50.5 degrees
(b) use vertical equilibrium
up forces = down force
44 sin x + (normal force) = M g = 127.4 N
Solve for the normal force. You could also solve for the coefficient of kinetic friction, but they don't ask for that.
Rachel pulls her 13 kg suitcase at a constant speed by pulling on a handle that makes an angle x with the horizontal. The frictional force on the suitcase is 28 N and Rachel exerts a 44 N force on the handle.
a) What angle does the handle make with the horizontal?
b) What is the normal force exerted on the suitcase?
Thoughts: normal force is equal to the weight minus the y component
2 answers
Thanks for your help.