Yes, the TA is correct. The object is just on the verge of sliding , but still at rest, when the angle reaches 35 degrees. Therefore, Newton 1 applies, where the max friction force up the plane, F_s =(mu)_s(N) (not F_k or mu_k, which you have incorrectly noted) is balanced by the object's weight component down the plane. Hope that the M cancels when you solve the equation.rich6490 said:I talked to a TA at my college, he wouldn't really help me but he said its not that bad of a problem, and to just plug in M for mass, and hope it cancels out when you solve the equations. I'm still a bit confused, so anyones input is greatly appreciated. Thanks a lot.
The coefficient of static friction is a value that represents the force needed to keep an object at rest on a surface. It is a dimensionless number that is determined by the nature of the two surfaces in contact.
The coefficient of static friction can be calculated by dividing the maximum force of static friction by the normal force acting on an object. This can be represented by the equation μs = Fmax/N, where μs is the coefficient of static friction, Fmax is the maximum force of static friction, and N is the normal force.
The coefficient of static friction is affected by the nature of the two surfaces in contact, the roughness of the surfaces, and the amount of force pushing the two surfaces together. It also depends on external factors such as temperature and humidity.
The coefficient of static friction is important because it helps determine the minimum force needed to keep an object at rest on a surface. It is also used in various engineering and physics applications, such as designing structures and predicting the motion of objects.
To find the coefficient of static friction experimentally, you can use a ramp and gradually increase the angle until an object on the ramp begins to slide. The coefficient of static friction can then be calculated using the angle of inclination and the known mass of the object.