Coefficient of kinetic friction between the two blocks

In summary, the coefficient of kinetic friction between two blocks is 0.30 and the surfaces of the table and pulleys are frictionless. The masses of the blocks are 2 kg, 3 kg, and 10 kg. The equations used are \SigmaF=ma, T2-m3g=m3a, T1-T2=m2a, and friction-T1=m1a. The solution results in an acceleration of -6.15m/s2, while the answer in the book is -5.7m/s2. The discrepancy may be due to rounding in the calculations.
  • #1
Squeezebox
57
0

Homework Statement


The coefficient of kinetic friction between the two blocks is 0.30. The surface of the table and pulleys are frictionless.

m1=2 kg
m2=3 kg
m3=10 kg

Homework Equations


[tex]\Sigma[/tex]F=ma
T2-m3g=m3a
T1-T2=m2a
friction-T1=m1a


The Attempt at a Solution


T2=m3g+m3a
T1=friction-m1a

friction-m1a-m3g-m3a=m2a

(friction-m3g)/(m1+m2+m3)=a
a=-6.15m/s2

The answer in my book say it is -5.7m/s2, though.
 

Attachments

  • blocks copy.jpg
    blocks copy.jpg
    6.5 KB · Views: 653
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #2
Squeezebox said:

Homework Statement


The coefficient of kinetic friction between the two blocks is 0.30. The surface of the table and pulleys are frictionless.

m1=2 kg
m2=3 kg
m3=10 kg
The answer in my book say it is -5.7m/s2, though.
T2=m3g-m3a
T1=m1a+m1
T2=T1+m1gμ+m2a
a=(m3g-m1gμ-m1gμ)/(m1+m2+m3)=5.7552
 
  • #3


I would suggest double-checking your calculations and equations to ensure accuracy. It is also important to consider any assumptions that may have been made, such as the surfaces being perfectly smooth and the blocks being in a vacuum. Additionally, it may be helpful to show your work and explain your reasoning in more detail to better understand where the discrepancy in your answer may be coming from. It is also important to note that the coefficient of kinetic friction can vary depending on the materials and conditions involved, so it may be worth exploring any potential sources of error in your calculation.
 

1. What is the definition of coefficient of kinetic friction?

The coefficient of kinetic friction is a measure of the amount of friction between two surfaces in contact that are in relative motion. It is a dimensionless value typically denoted by the symbol "μ".

2. How is the coefficient of kinetic friction calculated?

The coefficient of kinetic friction is calculated by dividing the force of kinetic friction (the force required to keep an object in motion) by the normal force (the force perpendicular to the surface).

3. What factors affect the coefficient of kinetic friction?

The coefficient of kinetic friction can be affected by various factors such as the nature of the two surfaces in contact, the roughness of the surfaces, and the relative speed between the two surfaces.

4. What is the difference between coefficient of kinetic friction and coefficient of static friction?

The coefficient of kinetic friction is the measure of the amount of friction between two surfaces in relative motion, while the coefficient of static friction is the measure of the amount of friction between two surfaces at rest. The coefficient of static friction is typically higher than the coefficient of kinetic friction.

5. Why is the coefficient of kinetic friction important in the study of motion?

The coefficient of kinetic friction is important because it helps us understand the forces involved in objects in motion. It also allows us to calculate the amount of energy lost to friction, which can affect the overall motion and efficiency of a system.

Similar threads

  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
5
Views
1K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
10
Views
2K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
13
Views
954
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
23
Views
1K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
3
Views
784
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
5
Views
4K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
7
Views
341
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
4
Views
985
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
13
Views
5K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
3
Views
1K
Back
Top