Coefficient of friction question, help please

In summary, the problem involves a child of mass 35kg going down a straight slide inclined at 25o to the horizontal at a constant speed. The normal reaction force between the child and the slide is found to be 311N, but the coefficient of friction between the two cannot be determined due to having two unknowns. However, it is later realized that since the child is moving at a constant speed, the acceleration must be zero, making the calculation for the coefficient of friction unnecessary.
  • #1
physicsgoon
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0

Homework Statement



1. A childs slide is straight and inclined at 25o to the horizontal. Matthew of mass 35kg goes down the slide at a constant speed.

(a) draw a diagram
(b) find the magintude of normal reaction force between matt and slide.
(c) Find the coefficient of friction between matt and the slide

part (a) and (b) are fine i got 311N for part (b) but couldn't find (c)


Homework Equations



F = MA
F = ,U (mew) x R


The Attempt at a Solution



Resolved it in direction of friction got;

Fr - 35gsin25 = 35a
could not do this as had two unknowns
same with
F = mew x 311 and F = 35a

any help would be greatly appreciated!
 
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  • #2
Matthew of mass 35kg goes down the slide at a constant speed.

What does that imply about the value of the acceleration?
 
  • #3
it implies that the acceleration is zero, i see now, thanks very much for your help :)
 

What is the coefficient of friction and how is it calculated?

The coefficient of friction is a measure of the resistance between two objects that are in contact with each other. It is calculated by dividing the force required to move one object over another by the weight of the object that is being moved.

What factors affect the coefficient of friction?

The coefficient of friction can be affected by several factors, such as the surface roughness of the objects in contact, the materials of the objects, the temperature, and the presence of any lubricants.

Why is the coefficient of friction important?

The coefficient of friction is important because it helps determine how easily one object can move or slide over another. This information is crucial in many practical applications, such as designing machinery, predicting the behavior of vehicles, and preventing accidents.

What are the different types of coefficients of friction?

There are two types of coefficients of friction: static and kinetic. Static friction is the resistance of an object to start moving when a force is applied, while kinetic friction is the resistance to keep moving at a constant speed. Both types of coefficients can vary depending on the factors mentioned above.

How can the coefficient of friction be reduced?

The coefficient of friction can be reduced by using lubricants, increasing the surface area of contact, or using materials with lower coefficients of friction. Additionally, reducing the weight of the object or smoothing out rough surfaces can also help decrease the coefficient of friction.

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