Why is the frictional force equation F = μN not equal to F = mg(cosθ)?

In summary, the force of friction is not equal to the frictional constant multiplied by the force of gravity because the equation F=mg(coefficiant) takes into account the negative direction of gravitational force. This means that additional forces, such as an extra downward force or an inclined or curved surface, can affect the calculation of friction. The vector for friction is parallel to the sliding surface and perpendicular to the normal force N, which is determined by factors such as mass and the cosine of the inclination angle.
  • #1
the_new_guy
1
0
Why isn't the force of friction F= (frictional constant)(force of gravity)?
Since F = mg(coefficiant)
and g is negative denoting the direction of the vector, gravitational force.
 
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  • #2
What if your sliding object is pushed down by an extra force or if it is sliding on a inclined or curved surface?
 
  • #3
The vector for friction is parallel to sliding surface and perpendicular to the normal force N. It is equal to the normal force multiplied by the coefficent of friction. The normal force N is a function of mass, g and the cosine of the inclination angle and whatever other forces that can be resolved in the normal direction.
 

Related to Why is the frictional force equation F = μN not equal to F = mg(cosθ)?

What is the frictional force equation?

The frictional force equation, also known as the Coulomb's law of friction, is a mathematical formula that describes the force of friction between two surfaces in contact. It is given by F = μN, where F is the frictional force, μ is the coefficient of friction, and N is the normal force between the two surfaces.

How is the coefficient of friction determined?

The coefficient of friction is determined experimentally by measuring the force required to move one surface over another. It is a dimensionless quantity that depends on the nature of the two surfaces in contact, their roughness, and the amount of force applied.

What factors affect the value of the frictional force?

The frictional force is affected by several factors, including the coefficient of friction, the normal force, and the nature of the two surfaces in contact. Rougher surfaces tend to have a higher coefficient of friction, resulting in a greater frictional force. Additionally, the frictional force increases with an increase in the normal force applied between the two surfaces.

Can the frictional force ever be greater than the applied force?

No, according to the frictional force equation, the maximum value of the frictional force is equal to the coefficient of friction multiplied by the normal force. Therefore, the frictional force can never be greater than the applied force.

How does the direction of the applied force affect the frictional force?

The direction of the applied force does not affect the magnitude of the frictional force, but it does affect its direction. The frictional force always acts in the opposite direction of the applied force, which is known as the direction of the force of static friction.

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