Deriving Friction Force: uN | F=uN

  • Context: Undergrad 
  • Thread starter Thread starter scuddman
  • Start date Start date
  • Tags Tags
    Forces
Click For Summary
SUMMARY

The equation for friction force, F = uN, where F represents the force of friction, u is the coefficient of friction, and N is the normal force, is derived from the principle that the force of friction is proportional to the normal force. This relationship is foundational in physics and engineering, illustrating how complex phenomena can be modeled. While it serves as a useful teaching tool for introductory students, its practical application in engineering contexts is limited.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of basic physics concepts, particularly forces and motion.
  • Familiarity with the normal force and its role in friction.
  • Knowledge of the coefficient of friction and its significance in material science.
  • Basic experimental design principles for conducting physics experiments.
NEXT STEPS
  • Explore the derivation of the coefficient of friction through experimental methods.
  • Study the applications of friction in engineering, particularly in mechanical design.
  • Investigate the limitations of the friction model in real-world scenarios.
  • Learn about advanced friction models, including those that account for surface roughness and material properties.
USEFUL FOR

Students in introductory physics courses, educators teaching fundamental mechanics, and engineers interested in the principles of friction and its applications in design.

scuddman
Messages
6
Reaction score
0
Where does the equation F (force of friction) = uN (Muu times normal force)
come from? How do you derive the u?
 
Physics news on Phys.org
derive? it is a property of substance... the easiest way is doing an experiment...
 
It comes from a good sounding phrase:

"The force of friction is proportional to the normal force"

This is translated into f = mN.

It isn't really worth anything to anyone, other then to show introductory students how complex phenomena can begin to be model. It is semi valid as a engineering rule, and good for teaching.
 

Similar threads

High School Deriving v(t) from F(x), for Linear Motion
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
1K
High School Zero acceleration = zero net force?
  • · Replies 33 ·
2
Replies
33
Views
3K
Undergrad Modeling Coulomb Friction for a Moving Point Mass in a Circular Bowl
  • · Replies 20 ·
Replies
20
Views
2K
Friction, Mass and Acceleration: Analyzing Block Motion
  • · Replies 6 ·
Replies
6
Views
2K
Undergrad Reaction force of and its relation to normal force and friction
  • · Replies 20 ·
Replies
20
Views
4K
High School Box being pulled up a slope with friction
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
2K
Undergrad Question about friction in situation where interface slip occurs
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
2K
Undergrad Rolling Without Slipping
  • · Replies 59 ·
2
Replies
59
Views
4K
Undergrad If frictional force in system is <= us*N then there is no slipping
  • · Replies 7 ·
Replies
7
Views
2K
Undergrad Understanding relative friction
  • · Replies 25 ·
Replies
25
Views
2K