What is the coefficient of kinetic friction between the pig and the slide?

In summary, the problem is asking for the coefficient of kinetic friction between a pig and a slide with a 40° incline. To solve this, one must first find the acceleration down the slide with and without friction, using equations such as F=ma and a=(V-Vo)/t. It is important not to assume that (V-Vo) is the same, as it may not be the case if the pig starts at rest. The key is to draw diagrams and figure out the forces, and then use calculations, such as sines and cosines, to solve for the necessary variables. This is a complex problem that requires careful attention to detail and substitution of variables.
  • #1
B-80
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A slide loving pig slides down a 40° incline (Fig. 6-24) in twice the time it would take to slide down a frictionless 40° incline. What is the coefficient of kinetic friction between the pig and the slide?

06_30pic.gif


F=ma ; a=(V-Vo)/t ; F=m((V-Vo)/t)

so m((V-Vo)/t) = m((V-Vo)/2t)F(friction)

m cancels V-Vo cancels t cancels which leaves 1/2F(friction) = 1

after solving for F(friction) I get 2, which is wrong, everything cancels pretty much. so I am at a loss
 

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  • #2
One cannot assume (V-Vo) is the same. If the pig starts at rest Vo = 0. Simply using V / t or 2t doesn't work.

Find the acceleration down the slide without friction, then find the acceleration with friction, and from that determine the coefficient of friction.
 
  • #3
Perhaps there is an easier way of doing this problem, but I did it recently and it's a heckofa lot more work than you have there. Here's a clue, this is about the coefficient of friction, and what do you multiply the coefficient of friction with to get friction? You need to start by drawing diagrams and figure out your forces, start calculating...
 
  • #4
Astronuc said:
One cannot assume (V-Vo) is the same. If the pig starts at rest Vo = 0. Simply using V / t or 2t doesn't work.

Find the acceleration down the slide without friction, then find the acceleration with friction, and from that determine the coefficient of friction.

how can I find either of these, all they gave me was the angle?
 
  • #5
Amazingly enough, you can do it. It's a lot of chugging formulas, sines and cosines, solving for certain variables then substituting in other formulas etc. Start simply. Draw the picture of the frictionless slide, then figure out label the forces, split them into x and y, then do the calculations for those forces. You just have to calculate what you can, then keep looking to substitute. And be careful not to mix up sines, and cosines etc.
 

1. What causes friction down a slide?

Friction down a slide is caused by the microscopic bumps and ridges on the surface of the slide and the object sliding down it. These irregularities create resistance, which slows down the sliding object.

2. How does friction affect the speed of an object down a slide?

Friction acts in the opposite direction of motion, so it will always decrease the speed of an object down a slide. The rougher the surface of the slide, the more friction there will be, resulting in a slower speed for the object.

3. Can friction be reduced on a slide?

Yes, friction can be reduced on a slide by using a smoother surface, such as a plastic or metal slide, instead of a wooden one. Additionally, adding a lubricant, such as water or oil, can also decrease friction.

4. How does the weight of an object affect friction down a slide?

The weight of an object does not directly affect the amount of friction. However, a heavier object will experience more gravitational force, causing it to slide down the slide with greater force and possibly increasing friction.

5. Is friction the same on all types of slides?

No, friction can vary depending on the material and surface of the slide. For example, a metal slide may have less friction than a wooden slide, and a wet slide may have less friction than a dry one.

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