Friction Force Calculation at an Angle on Flat Surface

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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers on calculating the friction force when an applied force acts at an angle on a flat horizontal surface. Participants explore the components of forces involved and the relationship between normal force and frictional force.

Discussion Character

  • Technical explanation
  • Mathematical reasoning
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant suggests that to find the friction force, it is necessary to break at least one force into components.
  • Another participant states that the static frictional force can be expressed as u_sF_n, where u_s is constant and F_n is the weight of the object plus the vertical component of the applied force.
  • A participant emphasizes that the frictional force acts in the opposite direction of the applied force, indicating that they would have different signs.
  • It is noted that the normal force F_n does not necessarily equal the weight of the object and can be modified by the vertical component of the applied force.
  • Two scenarios are presented: in one case, the normal force is the weight of the object plus the vertical component of the applied force, while in another case, it is the weight minus that component. This leads to a discussion on how these scenarios affect the friction force.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the relationship between the normal force and the friction force, with no consensus reached on the implications of the two scenarios presented.

Contextual Notes

Some assumptions about the definitions of forces and the conditions under which they apply remain unresolved, particularly regarding the nature of the normal force in different scenarios.

Thegiver431
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how do you find friction force when applied force is at an angle, this is on a flat horizontal surface.
 
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Usually you will need to break at least one force into components.
 
the static frictional force is :

$$u_sF_n$$

[Us] is constant and [F_n] is the wieght of the object the force is applied to plus the vertical component of the force ,, I think :)

Remember that the frictional force is always in opposite direction of the applied force , that means they would have a different signs
 
Last edited:
Fn is the force normal to the surface (it need not be the "weight" of the object or even "vertical").

In these two examples the normal force is the weight of the object modified by the vertical component of the applied force F.
http://philschatz.com/physics-book/resources/Figure_06_01_07a.jpg

in a) that would be

Fn = mg+FSin(25)

in b) that would be

Fn = mg-FSin(25)

Since friction is proportional to Fn that means b is easier than a)
 

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