A vertical force P is applied tangentially to the uniform cylinder shown. The coefficient of static friction at both contacts is 0.500. If the cylinder weight is Fg, what is the maximum P for which the cylinder does not rotate?

Question

G1 Physics · Accepted Answer

At the limiting condition, static friction at both contacts reaches its maximum magnitude µN with µ=0.5. Apply ΣF=0 and Στ=0 to the cylinder. Solving the two contact-force equations and moment balance gives maximum P=3Fᵍ/8. Hence option B.