Why is friction acting in the tangential direction?

In summary, the conversation is discussing the direction of friction in relation to the indicated direction of motion on a turntable. It is noted that the turntable is undergoing positive angular acceleration and the goal is to determine the time it takes to break a cord with a maximum tension of 100 N. The friction force is shown to have both a tangential and radial component, with a coefficient of friction of 0.1 and a mass of 3 kg. The question posed is why the friction force is acting in the positive tangential direction, despite friction typically opposing motion.
  • #1
eurekameh
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  • #2
eurekameh said:
http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/440/49789320.png/
Assuming the indicated direction of motion, why is friction acting as shown in the tangential direction? Shouldn't it be acting in the opposite direction?
Is there some information you're not letting us in on? For instance, is the turntable undergoing negative angular acceleration?
 
  • #3
The turntable is actually undergoing positive angular acceleration with its motion shown counter-clockwise.
We're looking for the time it takes for the turntable to reach a speed great enough to break the cord, which can only sustain a maximum tension of 100 N. mu,s = 0.1 and the mass of the disk D is 3 kg.
 
  • #4
Then friction must have a tangential component as well as a radial component as shown in the figure.
 
  • #5
Friction only has a tangential component as shown in the figure. The T in the radial component is the tension in the string. My question is: why is the friction force acting in the positive tangential direction, if friction opposes motion?
 
  • #6
Bump.
 

1. What is FBD Friction Confusion?

FBD Friction Confusion refers to a common misunderstanding or confusion surrounding the concept of friction in free body diagrams (FBDs) in physics. It involves the incorrect placement or interpretation of frictional forces in FBDs, leading to incorrect solutions and a lack of understanding of the underlying principles.

2. Why is FBD Friction Confusion important to understand?

FBD Friction Confusion can significantly impact a student's understanding and application of Newton's laws of motion and other fundamental principles in physics. It can also lead to incorrect calculations and results, which can be detrimental in more advanced physics topics.

3. What are some common misconceptions about FBD Friction Confusion?

One common misconception is that frictional forces should always be drawn in the direction opposite of motion, when in reality, the direction of friction depends on the direction of the applied force. Another misconception is that frictional forces should always be equal to the applied force, when in fact, they can vary depending on the surface and other factors.

4. How can one avoid FBD Friction Confusion?

One way to avoid FBD Friction Confusion is to fully understand the concept of friction and its role in FBDs. It is also important to carefully analyze the given situation and determine the direction and magnitude of all forces, including frictional forces, before drawing the FBD. Practice and seeking clarification from a teacher or tutor can also help prevent confusion.

5. Can FBD Friction Confusion be beneficial in any way?

While FBD Friction Confusion can hinder understanding and application of physics principles, it can also serve as a learning opportunity. By identifying and correcting misconceptions about friction in FBDs, students can deepen their understanding and improve their problem-solving skills in physics.

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