Coefficient of static friction on a ramp?

In summary, the conversation discusses a problem involving a block on a level floor and finding the coefficient of static friction between the block and a plank at a certain height. The equations F = ma and fs = mus x FN are mentioned, and the student suggests turning it into a triangle with sides of 1.9, 0.55, and 2.0, but the issue of not having a given mass is brought up. The reply suggests working symbolically and leaving the mass as an unknown "m", and using algebra to solve for the coefficient of friction.
  • #1
katie beisel
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0

Homework Statement


A small block sits at the midpoint of a 2.0 m plank lying on a level floor. A student slowly raises one end of the plank until the block starts to slide. At that instant, the raised end is 0.55 m above the floor. Find the coefficient of static friction between block and plank.

Homework Equations


F = ma
fs = mus x FN

The Attempt at a Solution



so i turned it into a triangle and the sides are 1.9, .55, 2.0
theres no mass given so I'm not sure how to even begin to find the force of friction or force normal
 
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  • #2
Work symbolically. Leave the mass as an unknown "m" and work through the algebra. You should find that the m will cancel out along the way.
 
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  • #3
gneill said:
Work symbolically. Leave the mass as an unknown "m" and work through the algebra. You should find that the m will cancel out along the way.
i don't understand. using what equation?
 
  • #4
katie beisel said:
i don't understand. using what equation?
What equations would you apply if the mass were given?
 

1. What is the coefficient of static friction on a ramp?

The coefficient of static friction on a ramp is a measure of the amount of force required to keep an object from sliding down the ramp when it is at rest. It is represented by the symbol µs and is dependent on the materials in contact and the angle of the ramp.

2. How is the coefficient of static friction on a ramp calculated?

The coefficient of static friction on a ramp can be calculated by dividing the force required to keep the object from sliding down the ramp by the normal force (perpendicular force) acting on the object. This can be represented by the equation µs = F/N, where F is the force and N is the normal force.

3. What factors affect the coefficient of static friction on a ramp?

The coefficient of static friction on a ramp is affected by the materials in contact and the angle of the ramp. The roughness of the materials, the weight of the object, and the surface area of contact also play a role in determining the coefficient of static friction.

4. How does the angle of the ramp affect the coefficient of static friction?

The coefficient of static friction on a ramp increases as the angle of the ramp increases. This is because as the angle increases, the normal force acting on the object also increases, making it more difficult for the object to slide down the ramp.

5. What is the significance of the coefficient of static friction on a ramp?

The coefficient of static friction on a ramp is important in determining the stability of an object on an inclined surface. It is also used in engineering and design to ensure that objects do not slide down ramps or inclines unintentionally.

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