We use Newton's second law of motion:
\[
F_{\text{net}} = m \times a
\]
Where:
- \( F_{\text{net}} = 54 - F \) (net force is the applied force minus the friction force)
- \( m = 6 \, \text{kg} \) (mass of the block)
- \( a = 6 \, \text{m/s}^2 \) (acceleration)
Using the equation:
\[
54 - F = 6 \times 6 = 36
\]
\[
F = 54 - 36 = 18 \, \text{N}
\]
Thus, the friction force \( F \) is \( 18 \, \text{N} \).