# Finding the coefficient of kinetic friction

## Homework Statement

A 50 kg block slides down a 32° ramp with an acceleration of 3.2 m/s2.
What is the coefficient of kinetic friction between the block and the ramp?

## Homework Equations

$$\mu$$kinetic=$$\frac{f_{kinetic}}{F_{normal}}$$

## The Attempt at a Solution

I have gone through many attempts, but all of them just don't seem right...could someone please explain it plain and simple?

nicksauce
Homework Helper
Hi physics_fool, welcome to PF. The usual algorithm for solving such problems is:

1) Draw a free body diagram, identifying the forces. There should be weight, friction, and normal force.
2) Use Newton's second law, F=ma, to find the force of friction
3) Use Force of friction / Normal Force = coefficient of friction

So what are the components of the forces in each direction?

That's the question as it was given...

but for your second question, isn't that to find the net force...not the force of friction?

Ok...nvm. I got it...thanks anyways