To calculate the acceleration of the crate, we can use Newton's second law of motion, which states:
\[
F_{\text{net}} = m \cdot a
\]
where \( F_{\text{net}} \) is the net force acting on the object, \( m \) is the mass of the object, and \( a \) is the acceleration.
1. **Determine the forces acting on the crate**:
- The applied force from you and your friend is \( F_{\text{applied}} = 500 \, \text{N} \).
- The friction force opposing the