Finding the coefficient of kinetic friction

This force acts vertically downward and has a magnitude of mg, where m is the mass of the block and g is the acceleration due to gravity. In summary, in order to determine the coefficient of kinetic friction between the block and the ceiling, you need to consider all the forces acting on the block, including the force of gravity. Once you include this force in the equation, you will get the correct answer of 0.781 for the coefficient of kinetic friction.
  • #1
riseofphoenix
295
2
A 3.40 kg block is pushed along the ceiling with a constant applied force of 85.0 N that acts at an angle of 55.0° with the horizontal, as in the figure below. The block accelerates to the right at 6.00 m/s2. Determine the coefficient of kinetic friction between block and ceiling.

p4-60.gif



Ugghhh so... this is what I did...

F = 85.0 N
m = 3.40 kg
a = 6.00 m/s2
fk = μkn

1) Forces in the x-direction:
F cos θ
fk (kinetic friction)

Forces in the y-direction:
F sin θ
n (normal force)

2) Sum of forces

ƩFx = F cos θ + fk = 0
ƩFy = F sin θ + n = 0
ƩFy = F sin θ + n = 0
ƩFy = n = -F sin θ

3) ƩFx = F cos θ + μkn = 0
3) ƩFx = F cos θ + μk(-F sin θ) = 0
3) ƩFx = F cos θ + μk(-F sin θ) = 0
3) ƩFx = 85 cos 55 - μk(85 sin 55) = 0
3) ƩFx = 85 cos 55 = μk(85 sin 55)
3) ƩFx = (85 cos 55)/(85 sin 55) = μk
3) ƩFx = 0.700 = μk

So I got this wrong, the answer is actually 0.781 (?)

I don't know what to do!
 
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  • #2
You forgot a force.
 
  • #3
You have only considered the upward force that is applied to the block and the normal force that the wall exerts downward on the block. You forgot to include the force of gravity in the equation.
 

1. What is the coefficient of kinetic friction?

The coefficient of kinetic friction is a numerical value that represents the amount of friction between two surfaces in contact when one of the surfaces is in motion. It is denoted by the symbol "μk" and has no units since it is a ratio of two forces.

2. How is the coefficient of kinetic friction calculated?

The coefficient of kinetic friction can be calculated by dividing the force of kinetic friction by the normal force between the two surfaces. Mathematically, it can be expressed as μk = Fk / Fn.

3. What factors affect the coefficient of kinetic friction?

The coefficient of kinetic friction can be affected by several factors, including the type of surfaces in contact, the roughness of the surfaces, and the presence of any lubricants or contaminants. It can also be affected by the force pressing the surfaces together and the speed of the moving surface.

4. How does the coefficient of kinetic friction differ from the coefficient of static friction?

The coefficient of kinetic friction represents the resistance to motion between two surfaces in contact when one of the surfaces is already in motion. The coefficient of static friction, on the other hand, represents the resistance to motion between two surfaces in contact when neither surface is in motion. The coefficient of static friction is typically higher than the coefficient of kinetic friction.

5. Why is it important to know the coefficient of kinetic friction?

The coefficient of kinetic friction is important in understanding and predicting the motion of objects on different surfaces. It can help engineers design better products and structures, and it is also essential in everyday activities such as driving, walking, and sports. Knowing the coefficient of kinetic friction can also help prevent accidents and improve safety in various industries.

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