Is the object on the table?

In summary, the conversation discusses the movement of an object with a speed of 2m/s on a 1m table and whether it has wheels or not. The student mentions using the equations for coefficient of friction and kinetic friction to find the answer and suggests looking online for approximate values. They also mention the equations for force of friction and acceleration as other possible methods to solve for the coefficient of friction.
  • #1
nickthrop101
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Homework Statement



An object is moved with a speed of 2m/s on one side of a 1m table to the other, it stops right at the other and of the table without falling off. Does it have wheels or not?

Homework Equations



The teacher gave this just to me and said we havnt learned about it yet but wanted to challenge me. I think it has something to do with the coefficient of friction and kinetic friction

The Attempt at a Solution


i don't want to be given an answer but just the relevant equations and how to use them thanks :)
 
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  • #2
You should be able to find the equation for coefficient of friction on the internet, plus approximate values for coefficient of friction for different surfaces/situations.

The equation is simple enough:

[tex]F_{fric} = \mu * F_n[/tex]
mu is your coefficient of friction
F_n is your normal force (in this case, the force of gravity)

If you can figure out your acceleration, then you have another way to figure out your force of friction:
F=ma

Between those two equations, you should be able to solve for your coefficient of friction and check the internet to see if that's a reasonable value for wheels or no wheels.
 

What is the coefficient of friction?

The coefficient of friction is a measure of the amount of resistance present between two surfaces when one surface moves over the other.

How is the coefficient of friction calculated?

The coefficient of friction is calculated by dividing the force required to move one surface over the other by the normal force, or the force pressing the two surfaces together.

What factors affect the coefficient of friction?

The coefficient of friction can be affected by factors such as the roughness of the surfaces, the materials of the surfaces, and the amount of force pressing the two surfaces together.

Why is the coefficient of friction important?

The coefficient of friction is important as it helps determine the amount of force needed to move an object over a surface, and it is also used in engineering and design to ensure the proper function and safety of various products and structures.

How does the coefficient of friction relate to the concepts of static and kinetic friction?

The coefficient of friction is used to calculate both static and kinetic friction. Static friction occurs when two surfaces are not moving relative to each other, while kinetic friction occurs when two surfaces are in motion relative to each other. The coefficient of friction can vary between these two types of friction.

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