Solving Friction up a Slope: Coefficient of Friction

In summary, the bag with a mass of 19kg slides up a hill of 60 meters at an angle of 30 degrees from an initial speed of 20m/s to rest. Using the equations Fn = mgcosx, Ff = \mucosx, F = ma, Vf2 = Vi2 + 2ad, and Fp = mgsinx, the coefficient of friction was calculated to be 0.393. However, the parallel component of gravity along the slope was not taken into account, which may affect the accuracy of the calculation. It is recommended to draw a Free Body Diagram before attempting similar problems.
  • #1
Intrusionv2
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0

Homework Statement


Lindsey's car is driving up a hill when her book bag, which she forgot on the roof, falls off. The bag has a mass of 19kg and slides up the hill 60 meters from its initial speed of 20m/s to rest. If the hill climbs at an angle of 30 degrees then what was the coefficient of friction?


Homework Equations


Fn = mgcosx
Ff = [tex]\mu[/tex]cosx
F = ma
Vf2 = Vi2 + 2ad
Fp = mgsinx (?)


The Attempt at a Solution



Fn = 19*9.8cos30 = 161N


Vf2 = Vi2 + 2ad
0 = 202 + 2a(60)
-400 = 120a
a = -3.33 m/s2

F = ma
F = 19 * -3.33 = 63.27N

Ff = [tex]\mu[/tex]mgcosx
63.27 = [tex]\mu[/tex]19*9.8*cos30
[tex]\mu[/tex] = .393

Is this correct? Is the parallel component required in this case? In what cases is it required?
 
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  • #2
you mean it slides down a hill? o_O
 
  • #3
I would draw an FBD (Free Body Diagram) before attempting this one

Looks close...
Acceleration & net force on the book look correct...

however the book also has a gravity component along the slope, which i don't think has been taken into account - this will also act to slow down the book
 

FAQ: Solving Friction up a Slope: Coefficient of Friction

What is the coefficient of friction?

The coefficient of friction is a measure of the amount of resistance between two surfaces in contact with each other. It represents the ratio of the force required to move an object across a surface to the force that is pressing the two surfaces together. The coefficient of friction is a dimensionless number and can range from 0 (no friction) to 1 (high friction).

How is the coefficient of friction calculated?

The coefficient of friction can be calculated by dividing the force required to move an object by the force pressing the two surfaces together. This can be done using a simple formula: μ = F/N, where μ is the coefficient of friction, F is the force required to move the object, and N is the normal force between the two surfaces.

What factors affect the coefficient of friction?

The coefficient of friction can be affected by several factors, including the type of surfaces in contact, the roughness of the surfaces, the amount of force pressing the two surfaces together, and the presence of any lubricants or contaminants on the surfaces.

How does friction affect an object moving up a slope?

Friction plays a crucial role in determining the movement of an object up a slope. The coefficient of friction between the object and the slope will determine how much force is required to move the object up the slope. If the coefficient of friction is high, more force will be needed to overcome the resistance and move the object up the slope.

What are some real-world applications of solving friction up a slope?

Understanding and calculating the coefficient of friction in a slope is important in many real-world applications, such as designing vehicles that can travel up steep inclines, determining the force needed to push or pull objects on a ramp, and predicting the stability of structures built on sloped surfaces. It is also important in sports, such as skiing and skateboarding, where friction plays a significant role in controlling the movement of the athlete on a slope.

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