Calculating Coefficients of Friction for a Sliding Book

AI Thread Summary
To calculate the coefficients of static and kinetic friction for a 1.55 kg book on a tabletop, the static friction force is 2.50 N, while the kinetic friction force is 1.50 N. The formula for friction force is the coefficient of friction (μ) multiplied by the normal force. The normal force in this case equals the weight of the book, which is the mass multiplied by gravity. By rearranging the formula and substituting the known values, the coefficients can be determined, with assistance available for any difficulties encountered in the calculations.
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Homework Statement



When you push a 1.55 kg book resting on a tabletop it takes 2.50 N to start the book sliding. Once it is sliding, however, it takes only 1.50 N to keep the book moving with constant speed. What are the coefficients of static and kinetic friction between the book and the tabletop?

Homework Equations



Force of static/kinetic friction= "mu" (looks like a u with a tail in the front) * normal force

The Attempt at a Solution

 
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Welcome to PF!
Look at the bottom of my post; you'll see "μ" and some other symbols you can copy and paste into a post. There are more of them here:
https://www.physicsforums.com/blog.php?b=346

I can't help you much until you attempt the problem. Can you at least write out the formula for friction force? It will have the μ in it, so solve for that. See if you can calculate the other unknowns in the formula. Let us know what trouble you have and we'll be glad to help.
 
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