Coefficient of static friction graph

[SwAnK]

hey I did this experiment where I dragged a mass by a scale until it moved to find the static friction. Then weight was added to the mass and the process reapeated.

My question when graphed and the mass or Fn on the x-axis and the applied force or Fs on the y-axis should it not plot a straight line through 0,0, which owuld be the coeffiecent of static friction?? I am just wanting to know because either i messed up the graph or got messed up results during the experiment.
thanx for your time

 

[Gokul43201]

My question when graphed and the mass or Fn on the x-axis and the applied force or Fs on the y-axis should it not plot a straight line through 0,0, which owuld be the coeffiecent of static friction??

Yes, it should roughly be a straight line through the origin. Can you explain why this is true ? And what property of this line gives you the coeff of static friction ?

PS : This is introductory physics. Next time, post such questions in the other section.

 

[quicknote]

Thank you for sharing your experiment and question. The graph of mass (Fn) versus applied force (Fs) should indeed result in a straight line through the origin (0,0) if the coefficient of static friction is constant. This is because the coefficient of static friction is defined as the ratio of the maximum static friction force to the normal force, and as the normal force increases (by adding weight to the mass), the maximum static friction force should also increase in a linear relationship.

If your graph does not show a straight line through the origin, it could be due to errors in measurement or experimental setup. It would be helpful to review your data and calculations to ensure accuracy. Additionally, it is important to note that the coefficient of static friction may not always be constant, as it can vary depending on the materials in contact and the surface conditions. Further experiments and data points may be needed to fully understand the relationship between mass and applied force in your specific experiment. Overall, it is important to carefully analyze and interpret your data to draw accurate conclusions.