Coefficient of Friction when applied force is not horizontal to surface?

AI Thread Summary
When the applied force is not horizontal to the surface, the coefficient of friction remains constant as it is dependent on the materials in contact. The frictional force, however, will vary based on the normal force, which changes with the angle of the applied force. If the force is applied vertically, friction can still exist, but if applied perpendicular to the surface, friction does not occur. To analyze the situation accurately, one must resolve the applied force into its components using trigonometric functions. Understanding these relationships is crucial for solving problems involving friction on inclined or vertical surfaces.
CharmedForever
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Homework Statement



What would happen to the coefficient of friction if the applied force was not horizontal to the surface?

Homework Equations


Ff=_{\mu}Fn

The Attempt at a Solution



I am unsure of how to proceed with this question, but I am thinking that you can't have friction against a vertical surface.
 
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CharmedForever said:
I am unsure of how to proceed with this question, but I am thinking that you can't have friction against a vertical surface.

Frictional force may certainly exist on a vertical surface.

CharmedForever said:
What would happen to the coefficient of friction if the applied force was not horizontal to the surface?

If by horizontal you mean normal to the surface then...

Ff = mu*Fn

Does Ff remain constant? No...it varies with mu and Fn. So what is mu dependant on? The two surfaces in contact! As the normal force changes, only the resultant frictional force varies, the coefficient of friction is constant between two surfaces and depends on the materials properties.
 
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Well if u r nt apllying force in the horizontal direction u cn apply it in vertical direction bt if u aplly it perpendicular no friction takes place ! bt if u apply it with an angle u need to resolve vectors od cosθ and sinθ and hence find ur ans
 
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