Finding the coefficient of friction

In summary, the coefficient of friction is a dimensionless quantity that represents the resistance between two surfaces in motion. It is important in understanding forces, designing machines, and predicting friction. The coefficient of friction can be measured using different methods and is affected by factors such as surface roughness, materials, and force applied. It differs from the coefficient of static friction, which represents the initial resistance to motion.
  • #1
theeggwoman
1
0
What is the coefficient of friction between a 65-kilogram chair and a floor if the chair can be pushed at constant speed with a force of 220 Newtons?

My attempt:
Given:
m=65 kg Ffr (force of friction)=220 N
w=mg=(65)(9.8)=637 Fn=637 N
μ=?
μ=Ffr/Fn
μ=220/637
μ≈0.345

Is this right? I honestly don't know what I'm doing so if anyone can help me it would be much appreciated. Thanks!
 
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #2
Everything is correct. Why are you saying you don't know what you are doing?
 

What is the coefficient of friction?

The coefficient of friction is a dimensionless quantity that represents the amount of resistance between two surfaces when one surface moves over the other. It is denoted by the symbol μ and is typically measured in units of force divided by force (such as N/N or lb/lb).

Why is finding the coefficient of friction important?

Determining the coefficient of friction is crucial in understanding the forces that act on objects in motion. It allows us to predict the amount of friction that will be present between two surfaces, which is important in designing machines, calculating the power needed for movement, and preventing accidents.

How is the coefficient of friction measured?

The coefficient of friction can be measured using various methods, such as sliding a block along a surface and measuring the force needed to keep it moving at a constant speed, or using an inclined plane and measuring the angle at which an object starts to slide. The coefficient of friction can also be calculated using mathematical equations based on the materials and surfaces involved.

What factors affect the coefficient of friction?

The coefficient of friction is influenced by several factors, including the roughness or smoothness of the surfaces, the type of material involved, the amount of force applied, and the presence of any lubricants. The surface area of contact and the temperature can also have an impact on the coefficient of friction.

How does the coefficient of friction differ from the coefficient of static friction?

The coefficient of friction (dynamic) refers to the amount of resistance between two surfaces when one is in motion. The coefficient of static friction, on the other hand, represents the amount of force needed to overcome the initial resistance and start the motion. In other words, the coefficient of static friction is higher than the coefficient of friction, as it takes more force to overcome the stationary state and initiate movement.

Similar threads

  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
17
Views
490
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
20
Views
1K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
18
Views
1K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
1
Views
642
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
2
Views
2K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
6
Views
792
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
7
Views
941
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
5
Views
1K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
2
Views
595
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
1
Views
1K
Back
Top