Coefficient of Static Friction between truck and block

In summary, we are given a problem where a block sits on a truck that is accelerating up an incline at an angle of 15° with respect to the horizontal. If the truck's acceleration is less than 2.10 m/s2, the block remains on the truck, but if it is equal to or greater than this value, the block slides off. We are asked to find the coefficient of static friction between the truck and the block. Using the equations F=ma and f_s≤µ_s n, we can calculate the coefficient of static friction to be approximately 0.0357. However, there is a signage error in the attempt at a solution, and we need to consider the directions of the forces acting
  • #1
MetallicaFNum
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Homework Statement


An un-tethered block sits on a flatbed truck as it accelerates up an incline that makes an angle of 15° with respect to the horizontal. If the truck speeds up at a rate less than 2.10 m/s2, the block remains on the truck. If the truck speeds up at a rate equal to or greater than this value, however, the block slides off the truck. What is the coefficient of static friction between the truck and the block?

Homework Equations


F = ma
f_s≤µ_s n


The Attempt at a Solution


((9.80 m⁄(s^2)sin(15°) -(2.20 m⁄s^2 ))/((9.80 m⁄s^2 ) cos(15°) )=0.0357
 
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  • #2
You have a signage error...can you find it? What are the directions of the forces acting on the block, parallel to the incline? What is the direction of its acceleration along the incline?
 

1. What is the coefficient of static friction?

The coefficient of static friction is a measure of the amount of force needed to overcome the static friction between two surfaces in contact with each other. It is denoted by the symbol µs and is a dimensionless quantity.

2. How is the coefficient of static friction determined?

The coefficient of static friction can be determined experimentally by measuring the maximum force required to start an object in motion on a given surface. This force is then divided by the normal force between the two surfaces to obtain the coefficient of static friction.

3. What factors affect the coefficient of static friction?

The coefficient of static friction is influenced by several factors, including the nature of the surfaces in contact, the roughness of the surfaces, the weight of the object, and the presence of any lubricants or contaminants on the surfaces.

4. Why is the coefficient of static friction important?

The coefficient of static friction is important because it helps us understand the maximum force that can be applied to an object before it starts to slide or move. This is important in designing structures, machinery, and vehicles to ensure they can withstand the forces acting upon them.

5. How does the coefficient of static friction between a truck and block affect their motion?

The coefficient of static friction between a truck and block determines the maximum force that the truck's tires can exert on the block before it starts to slide or move. If the force applied by the truck exceeds this maximum value, the block will start to move and the truck will begin to accelerate.

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