Calculating Coefficients of Friction for a Sliding Book

In summary, the problem involves finding the coefficients of static and kinetic friction between a 1.55 kg book and a tabletop, given that it takes 2.50 N to start the book sliding and 1.50 N to keep it moving at a constant speed. The formula for friction force is given as "mu" (looks like a u with a tail in the front) * normal force. The solution process involves solving for the coefficient of friction by calculating the other unknowns in the formula.
  • #1
universitybou
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Homework Statement



When you push a 1.55 kg book resting on a tabletop it takes 2.50 N to start the book sliding. Once it is sliding, however, it takes only 1.50 N to keep the book moving with constant speed. What are the coefficients of static and kinetic friction between the book and the tabletop?

Homework Equations



Force of static/kinetic friction= "mu" (looks like a u with a tail in the front) * normal force

The Attempt at a Solution

 
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  • #2
Welcome to PF!
Look at the bottom of my post; you'll see "μ" and some other symbols you can copy and paste into a post. There are more of them here:
https://www.physicsforums.com/blog.php?b=346

I can't help you much until you attempt the problem. Can you at least write out the formula for friction force? It will have the μ in it, so solve for that. See if you can calculate the other unknowns in the formula. Let us know what trouble you have and we'll be glad to help.
 
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FAQ: Calculating Coefficients of Friction for a Sliding Book

1. What is static friction?

Static friction is the force that prevents an object from moving when a force is applied to it. It occurs when two surfaces are in contact with each other and have not yet started moving relative to each other.

2. What is kinetic friction?

Kinetic friction is the force that opposes the movement of an object as it slides over a surface. It is the force that must be overcome to keep an object in motion.

3. What factors affect the amount of static friction?

The amount of static friction is affected by the roughness of the surfaces in contact, the amount of force applied, and the normal force between the surfaces.

4. How is the coefficient of friction related to static and kinetic friction?

The coefficient of friction is a measure of the roughness of the surfaces in contact. It is used to calculate the amount of static and kinetic friction present between two surfaces.

5. How can static and kinetic friction be reduced?

Static and kinetic friction can be reduced by using lubricants between the surfaces, making the surfaces smoother, or reducing the normal force between the surfaces.

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