University Physics with Modern Physics (14th Edition)

Published by Pearson
ISBN 10: 0321973615
ISBN 13: 978-0-32197-361-0

Chapter 5 - Applying Newton's Laws - Problems - Exercises - Page 167: 5.84

Answer

The fraction of the rope that can hang over the edge of the table is $\frac{\mu_s}{\mu_s + 1}$.

Work Step by Step

Let $x$ be the fraction of the rope that hangs over the table. If the rope does not slide, then the weight of the hanging section is equal in magnitude to the force of static friction. Let's find $x$ when the force of static friction is at its maximum. $x~mg = (1-x)~mg~\mu_s$ $x = (1-x)~\mu_s$ $x + x~\mu_s = \mu_s$ $x = \frac{\mu_s}{\mu_s + 1}$ The fraction of the rope that can hang over the edge of the table is $\frac{\mu_s}{\mu_s + 1}$.
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