What exactly is limiting frictional force?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the concept of limiting frictional force, particularly in the context of a body moving with constant velocity on a rough surface. Participants explore the relationship between friction, deceleration, and the distinction between static and kinetic friction.

Discussion Character

  • Conceptual clarification
  • Debate/contested
  • Mathematical reasoning

Main Points Raised

  • One participant questions whether the deceleration of a body, when the force maintaining its constant velocity is removed, can be expressed as limiting frictional force divided by the mass of the body.
  • Another participant clarifies that the term "limiting frictional force" applies to static friction, which is the force required to initiate motion, while kinetic friction is relevant for moving bodies.
  • A third participant introduces the concept of stick-slip motion, indicating a transitional state between static and kinetic friction.
  • One participant expresses concern that the use of "limiting force" in the context of deceleration is out of context, suggesting that the situation involves energy transfer and temperature changes, complicating the analysis.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants do not reach a consensus on the application of limiting frictional force in the scenario presented. There are competing views regarding the definitions and implications of static versus kinetic friction, as well as the appropriateness of the proposed mathematical relationship.

Contextual Notes

Participants highlight the complexity of frictional forces, noting that the relationship between force, deceleration, and friction may depend on various factors, including the state of motion and energy considerations.

Lightning0145
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Given that a body is moving with a constant velocity on a rough surface. Is it possible to say that if the force (which keeps the body moving with a constant velocity) is withdrawn then the rate at which it will decelerate = limiting frictional force / mass of the body? {Force = m * a}.
Thank you.
 
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When an object is sliding across a stationary surface, friction will act to slow the object down.
Lightning0145 said:
Summary: Can I say that deceleration = limiting frictional force / mass

Given that a body is moving with a constant velocity on a rough surface. Is it possible to say that if the force (which keeps the body moving with a constant velocity) is withdrawn then the rate at which it will decelerate = limiting frictional force / mass of the body? {Force = m * a}.
Thank you.
The phrase "limiting frictional force" would be applicable to static friction. It denotes how much force it takes to "break loose" or "start skidding". Apply less force than this and a box that is at rest on the floor will not move. Apply more force than this and it will start moving.

Since you have a body that is moving, you are dealing with kinetic friction. With kinetic friction, there is just a "force of friction", not a "limiting force of friction".
 
In between static and kinetic friction there is stick-slip motion that you should know about.
 
Lightning0145 said:
Summary: Can I say that deceleration = limiting frictional force / mass

Given that a body is moving with a constant velocity on a rough surface. Is it possible to say that if the force (which keeps the body moving with a constant velocity) is withdrawn then the rate at which it will decelerate = limiting frictional force / mass of the body? {Force = m * a}.
Thank you.
I would say that you are trying to use the term "limiting force" out of context. The limiting friction force is the value of an increasing force that finally causes static friction to unstick. You seem to be discussing what happens as a force is increased until motion stops and I don't think that is what the term describes. That situation cannot be described as tightly because energy is transferred to a temperature change and the time involved would affect the situation. It's not a 'good' experiment, imo. You can get negative acceleration when any force is applied.
 

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