Solve for friction coefficient of block on sp

In summary, a 1.60 kg block connected to a spring with a spring constant of 152 N/m is pulled back 34.6 cm to the right and released on a surface with a small coefficient of kinetic friction. On the first right to left oscillation, the block only reaches 33.22 cm to the left. The question is asking for the coefficient of friction. Relevant equations for springs and friction/work should be used to solve this problem. It can be assumed that the initial stretch to the right was greater than the motion to the left due to changes in the system, and this difference can be calculated.
  • #1
tensor0910
Gold Member
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1. Homework Statement

A block of mass 1.60 kg is connected to a spring of spring constant 152 N/m which is then set into oscillation on a surface with a small coefficient of kinetic friction. The mass is pulled back 34.6 cm to the right and released. On the first right to left oscillation, the mass reaches 33.22 cm to the left

What is the coefficient of friction?2. Homework Equations
3. The Attempt at a Solution :

Pretty lost on this one. With 2 different distances, and a spring constant my first instinct was to use the total energy, and solve for V ( Fsp = 1/2k( xf - xi )

After that I am not sure...
 
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  • #2
Write out your Relevant equations for springs. Write out your relevant equations for friction and work.

Why do you suppose the spring's motion to the left is less than its initial stretch to the right? What changed? By how much?
 

1. What is friction coefficient?

The friction coefficient is a measure of the resistance between two surfaces in contact. It is a dimensionless number that represents the ratio of the force required to move one surface over the other, to the force pressing the two surfaces together.

2. How is friction coefficient calculated?

The friction coefficient can be calculated by dividing the force of friction by the normal force. This can be determined by conducting experiments or by using mathematical equations, depending on the specific scenario.

3. What factors affect the friction coefficient?

The friction coefficient can be affected by several factors, including the type of material, the roughness of the surfaces, the amount of force applied, and the presence of any lubricants.

4. How can the friction coefficient be reduced?

The friction coefficient can be reduced by using lubricants to create a barrier between the two surfaces, by polishing or smoothing the surfaces, or by using materials with lower coefficients of friction.

5. Why is it important to determine the friction coefficient?

Understanding the friction coefficient is important in various fields such as engineering, physics, and materials science. It helps in designing structures and machines, predicting motion and forces, and selecting appropriate materials for specific applications.

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