A block of mass m is placed on a surface with a vertical cross section given by y = x^3/6

• Laws of Motion

A block of mass m is placed on a surface with a vertical cross section given by y = x³/6. If the coefficient of friction is 0.5, the maximum height above the ground at which the block can be placed without slipping is:

1. 1/6 m
2. 1/3 m
3. 1/2 m
4. 2/3 m

Solution

mg sin θ = μ mg cosθ

tan θ = μ

dy/dx = tan θ = μ = 1/2

y = x³/6

dy/dx = x²/2 = 1/2

x = 1

y = 1/6 m

The correct option is A.