Calculating Force of Friction on a Sliding Block on a Ramp

AI Thread Summary
To calculate the force of friction on a sliding block on a ramp inclined at angle A, first determine the normal force and the gravitational force component parallel to the ramp. The frictional force equals the parallel gravitational force at the critical angle where the block begins to slide. Once the block is in motion, the frictional force decreases, allowing for acceleration. To maintain constant velocity after initiating movement, adjust the ramp angle so that the force parallel to the ramp equals the frictional force, leading to the equation: normal force multiplied by the coefficient of friction equals the frictional force. Understanding these relationships is crucial for accurately calculating the coefficient of friction.
poikonen03
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There is a block of W Newtons and a ramp is A degrees above the horizontal. At this angle the block begins to slide. How do I find the force of friction and then it should be quite easy to find coefficient of friction. (I already have already solve for the normal force Fw and the force parallel the ramp Fp)?
 
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If you solved for the normal force, you were very close to finding the component of gravitational force parallel to the plane. Friction overcomes (equals in magnitude) that force for small angles. When the block begins to slide, friction has just been overcome. At that critical angle, the component of gravity parallel to the plane equals the force of friction.

Once sliding starts, the frictional force gets smaller and there is some acceleration. To find the frictional force when the block is sliding, reduce the angle to achieve constant velocity after you give the block a little push to get it started.
 
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so basically F sub P (force parallel to ramp) = F sub F (force of friction) since there is no accel...so F sub N (normal force) * Coefficient of Friction = F sub F
thanks :smile:
 

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