Calculate Friction Coefficient Using Pulleys and Mass

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on calculating the coefficient of friction in a pulley system involving two masses. The formula used is M(1)a(coefficient of friction) = M(2)(g-a), which is rearranged to find the coefficient of friction. The user initially miscalculated the acceleration, leading to an unrealistic coefficient value of 7.5171. After clarification, the correct acceleration value was established as 0.6525 m/s², which is essential for accurate calculations.

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  • Understanding of Newton's laws of motion
  • Basic knowledge of pulley systems
  • Familiarity with the concept of acceleration
  • Knowledge of gravitational force (g = 9.81 m/s²)
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  • Review the principles of Newton's second law of motion
  • Learn about the dynamics of pulley systems in physics
  • Study the calculation of coefficients of friction in various contexts
  • Explore experimental methods for measuring acceleration in pulley systems
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Physics students, educators, and anyone interested in understanding the mechanics of pulley systems and the calculation of friction coefficients.

Chaotic Boredom
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Alright, I know I have this stuff somewhere at school, but unfortunately, I can't leave it till tom.

A mass is at rest on a horizontal plane, and is attached by a second mass that is threaded through a pulley and is suspended in the air. What is the coefficient of friction?

The formula I've been using is

M(1)a(coefficient of friction) = M(2) (g-a)
(sorry about the horrible representation)

rearranged into this:

M(2) (g-a) = (coefficient of friction)
M(1)a

where a= acceleration
M= mass
g = gravity = 9.81

Unfortunately, upon plugging in my numbers from the experiment, I keep getting 7.5171...for the coefficient of gravity...which to me seems impossibly high!
 
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The system is at rest, so what's acceleration supposed to be?

cookiemonster
 
Oops, forgot to mention that the system BEGINS at rest and then the suspended mass is released, hence the acceleration...wow, I feel dumber already! :rolleyes:

Acceleration was 0.6525 m/s(squared)
 

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