Calculating the coefficient of kinetic friction

In summary, the conversation discussed a lab where a weight was attached to a pulley and connected to a wooden block. The time it took for the block to travel a certain distance was calculated and the variables of T, mass of the wooden block, mass of the weight on the pulley, and distance were provided. The equations used included D=vitf+1/2atf^2, F=ma, and the force of kinetic friction formula. The approach of solving for acceleration and using it to calculate the coefficient of kinetic friction was mentioned, although there was uncertainty about its accuracy.
  • #1
Baller123
1
0

Homework Statement


This was a lab. We attached a weight to a pulley and connected it to a wooden block. the wooden block was placed on a wooden board on a table. we dropped the weight and calculated the time it to the block to travel a certain distance.We have the variables
T=1.28 s
Mass of wooden block=.243 kg
Mass of weight on pulley=.110 kg
d=.5 m

Homework Equations


D=vitf+1/2atf^2
F=ma
Force of kinetic friction=coefficient of kinetic friction times normal force

The Attempt at a Solution


I solved for acceleration and used that to solve for the coefficient. I'm sure that's wrong
 
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  • #2
Your approach sounds ok to me. Provided you didn't just use F from F=MA.
 

FAQ: Calculating the coefficient of kinetic friction

1. What is the coefficient of kinetic friction?

The coefficient of kinetic friction is a measure of the amount of friction between two surfaces in motion. It is represented by the symbol "μ" and is a unitless value that ranges from 0 to 1.

2. How do you calculate the coefficient of kinetic friction?

The coefficient of kinetic friction can be calculated by dividing the force of kinetic friction by the normal force between the two surfaces. This can be written as: μ = Fk/N. The force of kinetic friction can be determined by measuring the force required to keep an object in motion at a constant speed.

3. What factors affect the coefficient of kinetic friction?

The coefficient of kinetic friction can be affected by several factors including the nature of the two surfaces in contact, the roughness of the surfaces, and the amount of force applied. It may also vary with temperature and the presence of any lubricants or fluids.

4. How does the coefficient of kinetic friction differ from the coefficient of static friction?

The coefficient of kinetic friction measures the amount of friction between two surfaces in motion, whereas the coefficient of static friction measures the maximum amount of friction that must be overcome to initiate motion between two surfaces. The coefficient of kinetic friction is generally lower than the coefficient of static friction for the same two surfaces.

5. Why is it important to calculate the coefficient of kinetic friction?

The coefficient of kinetic friction is an important measure in understanding the behavior of objects in motion. It can help engineers and scientists determine the amount of force needed to keep an object moving at a constant speed, as well as the amount of work required to overcome frictional forces. It is also useful in designing and optimizing systems and machines that involve moving parts.

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