Question

Using a horizontal force of $200\mathrm{N}$, we intend to move a wooden cabinet across a floor at a constant velocity. What is the friction force that will be exerted on the cabinet?

Answer 1

Step 1: Given data

Horizontal applied force is $200\mathrm{N}$

Step 2: To find

We have to find the friction force that will be exerted on the cabinet.

Step 3: Calculation

For an item to travel with constant velocity, its net external force must've been equivalent to zero.

The total force on the body $=0$

The total force will be force applied and friction.

Thus,

$\Rightarrow \mathrm{Force}\mathrm{applied}\mathrm{on}\mathrm{body}+\mathrm{Friction}=0$

By substituting the values,

$$\begin{gathered} 200+\mathrm{Friction}=0 \\ \mathrm{Friction}=0-200 \\ =-200\mathrm{N} \end{gathered}$$

Therefore, the friction force that will be exerted on the cabinet is $-200\mathrm{N}$ (negative sign denoted the opposite direction).