Finding the coefficient of kinetic friction - problem with a mass on a plane

Thread starter hollym123
Start date Jul 23, 2019
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Coefficient Friction Kinetic Kinetic friction Mass Plane

In summary, the coefficient of kinetic friction is a unitless value that represents the amount of friction between two surfaces in motion. It can be calculated by dividing the force of friction by the normal force and is affected by factors such as surface material, weight, and velocity. Finding the coefficient of kinetic friction is important for understanding and predicting motion, as well as improving the efficiency of machines. It can be measured using various methods, including using force and motion sensors or calculating the angle of an object on an inclined plane.

Jul 23, 2019

hollym123

Homework Statement: A block of mass m=2.54kg sliding along a rough horizontal surface is traveling at a speed
vo= 10 m/s when it strikes a massless spring head-on (see Figure below) compressing the
spring. If the maximum compression is 10 cm and the spring constant is 25kN/m, what is
the coefficient of kinetic friction of the horizontal surface.

Diagram: https://imgur.com/a/EzW6rcH

Relevant Equations: Well since this has spring constants I guess I'd have 1/2 kx^2.

I don't really know how to begin this problem. I need some advice

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Jul 23, 2019

Flatlanderr

Do you know the work-energy theorem?

Related to Finding the coefficient of kinetic friction - problem with a mass on a plane

1. What is the coefficient of kinetic friction?

The coefficient of kinetic friction is a measure of the amount of friction between two surfaces when one is in motion. It is represented by the symbol μk and is a dimensionless quantity.

2. How is the coefficient of kinetic friction calculated?

The coefficient of kinetic friction can be calculated by dividing the force of kinetic friction by the normal force between the two surfaces. It can also be determined experimentally by measuring the force required to keep an object moving at a constant velocity.

3. What factors affect the coefficient of kinetic friction?

The coefficient of kinetic friction is affected by the nature of the two surfaces in contact, the roughness of the surfaces, and the presence of any lubricants or contaminants. It also depends on the normal force and the velocity of the object.

4. Why is the coefficient of kinetic friction important?

The coefficient of kinetic friction is important in understanding and predicting the behavior of objects in motion. It is used in various calculations, such as determining the force needed to move an object at a constant velocity or the distance an object will travel before coming to a stop.

5. How can the coefficient of kinetic friction be reduced?

The coefficient of kinetic friction can be reduced by using lubricants between surfaces, making the surfaces smoother, or decreasing the normal force between the two surfaces. It can also be reduced by using materials with lower coefficients of friction.