How to find coefficient of friction?

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around calculating the coefficient of friction for a car skidding down an 8% grade hill over a distance of 30 meters, with the car initially traveling at 25 MPH or more.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Mathematical reasoning

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the relationship between the angle of the slope and the coefficient of friction, with some suggesting that the coefficient may be related to the tangent of the slope. Others raise questions about the conversion of the gradient into degrees and the application of Newton's laws.

Discussion Status

The discussion is active with various interpretations being explored. Some participants have offered guidance on drawing diagrams and applying Newton's second law, while others are questioning the assumptions and definitions related to the problem.

Contextual Notes

There is a mention of specific speed conversion and the need for a diagram to illustrate the forces acting on the car, indicating that certain information may be necessary for a complete analysis.

Narayanswamy
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If a driver traveling down an 8% grade hill slams down the brakes of his car and skids 30 meters, what is the coefficient of friction ( assuming he was traveling at 25 MPH or more)?

Appreciate your help asap.
 
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you use the acceleration due to gravity and say that the friction overcomes that by ___ amount
 
Last edited:
What is 8% gradient in degrees?
 
is Coefficient of friction tan(slope in degrees) ?
 
i believe that 8% is the tangent of the angle. the coefficient of friction is mu, and for most cars should be between .6 and .8
 
Narayanswamy said:
If a driver traveling down an 8% grade hill slams down the brakes of his car and skids 30 meters, what is the coefficient of friction ( assuming he was traveling at 25 MPH or more)?

Appreciate your help asap.
Assemble the usual suspects: Draw a diagram showing all the forces acting on the car. Apply Newton's 2nd law to relate the net force to the acceleration. Use kinematics or work/energy to compute the acceleration. (Pick a specific speed: convert 25 mph to m/s.)
 

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