Coefficient of kinetic friction on inclined plane

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the coefficient of kinetic friction on inclined planes compared to horizontal planes. Participants explore the factors influencing this coefficient, including material properties and experimental observations.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant questions why the coefficient of kinetic friction would be larger for an inclined plane than for a horizontal plane, suggesting a possible connection to material properties.
  • Another participant asserts that the coefficient of kinetic friction is not larger for inclined planes, emphasizing that it is related to the materials in contact.
  • A participant shares experimental results indicating a larger coefficient for the inclined plane, prompting further discussion on real-world factors affecting friction.
  • It is noted that the coefficient of kinetic friction may depend on the relative velocity between the sliding surfaces.
  • One participant suggests that the limits of the coefficient's size could be influenced by various factors, while another counters that it primarily depends on the materials involved.
  • A participant clarifies that the block's motion at a constant velocity on the inclined plane does not change the discussion about the coefficient of kinetic friction.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the relationship between the coefficient of kinetic friction and the incline of the plane, with no consensus reached on whether the coefficient is larger on inclined planes. The discussion remains unresolved regarding the implications of experimental results and the influence of material properties.

Contextual Notes

Participants mention various factors that could influence the coefficient of kinetic friction, including material properties and relative velocity, but do not resolve the implications of these factors in the context of inclined versus horizontal planes.

Melanie.H
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Why would the coefficient of kinetic friction be larger for an inclined plane versus a horizontal plane?
Would it be related to the material? I thought initially it was something to do with the force of gravity… but apparently that's not it :(
Thanks so much in advance!
 
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Hi Melanie.H. Welcome to Physics Forums.
Melanie.H said:
Why would the coefficient of kinetic friction be larger for an inclined plane versus a horizontal plane?

It's not.
Would it be related to the material?
Yes. It is related to the two materials that are in sliding contact.
I thought initially it was something to do with the force of gravity… but apparently that's not it :(
No. That's right.

Chet
 
Thanks! :D I was just wondering because for an experiment I actually got that it was bigger for the inclined plane….
 
Melanie.H said:
Thanks! :D I was just wondering because for an experiment I actually got that it was bigger for the inclined plane….
In the real world, the coefficient of kinetic friction also depends on the relative velocity between the sliding surfaces.

Chet
 
Hm, interesting! That would also contribute to some of the limits of how large the coefficient can be then?
 
Melanie.H said:
Hm, interesting! That would also contribute to some of the limits of how large the coefficient can be then?
I don't think so. That depends on the materials that are in contact.

Chet
 
Okay, that makes sense :)
 
Oh, I suppose I should have mentioned for my original question that the block was being pulled up or across the plane at a constant velocity… would this change anything?
 
Melanie.H said:
Oh, I suppose I should have mentioned for my original question that the block was being pulled up or across the plane at a constant velocity… would this change anything?
No.
 

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