Finding the Coefficiant of friction

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To find the coefficient of friction for a 1.5 kg cart accelerating at 0.12 m/s², the calculations start with F=ma, yielding a force of 0.18 N. The pulling weight of 50 grams translates to a force of 0.49 N. The frictional force (Ff) is determined by subtracting the acceleration force from the pulling force, resulting in 0.31 N. The correct normal force should be calculated in Newtons, not grams, leading to the equation µmg=Ff for solving the coefficient of friction. It's crucial to ensure all calculations are based on consistent units to avoid errors.
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A cart that weighs 1.5 kg is accelerating at .12 M/s^2 on a horizontal surface. The cart is being pulled by a weight of 50 grams. Find the coefficiant of friction.

I've been using F=ma so 1.5(.12)=.18N

the weight pulling is equal to .05kg(9.8)=.49N

.49-.18=.31N=Ff Ff=m(Fn) .31=m(1500) m (the coefficient of friction)= .0002

I don't feel like this is the right answer, can anyone see what I'm doing wrong?
 
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Check your calculation for the normal force...Where did you get 1500 from?
 
rakbarut said:
Check your calculation for the normal force...Where did you get 1500 from?

I thought in Normal force was measured in grams, not kilograms. That may be where I went wrong. So the proper equation should be .31/1.5=.2? That seems pretty simple and for some reason feel like I've messed up somewhere else but if that's all that I seem to have done wrong then thanks!
 
Again make sure all your calculations are correct...If the Ff = .31 N and the mass of the object is 1.5 kg use the equation µmg=Ff to solve for µ. I think you understand the concepts, just make sure you are doing the algebra correctly...
 
BlakcDahlia said:
I thought in Normal force was measured in grams, not kilograms.
Forces are measured in Newtons. Grams and kilograms are used for mass, not force.
 
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