Understanding Friction Force: Net Force of X-Component Explained

In summary, the conversation is discussing the concept of net force and its relation to the movement of a puck on an incline. The net force of the x-component is equal to the kinetic friction force, and there is no additional force needed to keep the puck moving once it has started. This is explained by Newton's second law, which states that the net force on an object is equal to its mass times acceleration. The conversation also addresses the misconception that the opposing forces should cancel each other out, when in reality the net force determines the movement of the object.
  • #1
taegello
2
0
Can anyone tell me why

net Force of x-component = -f(k) in a moving puck? I don't get how the net Force of x-component be just the kinetic friction force. What about the force that the puck is using to be actually moving? shouldn't that force be included in the net Force of x-component?

When an object is still on an incline,
net Force of x-component = (mg)(sin theta) - f(s) = 0

on when an object is moving, shouldn't it be something minus f(k)?

Any help would be greatly appreciated
 
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  • #2
The puck does not "use" any force just to be moving. Once it starts moving it will continue moving on its own (as long as any friction acting on it is compensated for by another force, of course).
 
  • #3
but if net Fx = - f(k) the puck shouldn't be moving or at least moving with constant accelleration? isn't this saying that ma= -f(k)? if the opposing forces are the same, how can the object be moving? any force of ma will be canceled out by -f(k)

I am so lost...
 
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  • #4
taegello said:
but if net Fx = - f(k) the puck shouldn't be moving or at least moving with constant accelleration? isn't this saying that ma= -f(k)?
If the net force Fx = -f(k), then the puck is accelerating.
if the opposing forces are the same, how can the object be moving? any force of ma will be canceled out by -f(k)
(1) There's no opposing force. -f(k) is the only (or the net) force acting.
(2) "ma" is not a force, it's mass*acceleration. Newton's 2nd law tells us that the net force on an object will equal ma: ∑F = ma.
(3) If another force acted to cancel out the -f(k) force, then the net force would be zero, not -f(k).
 

FAQ: Understanding Friction Force: Net Force of X-Component Explained

What is friction force?

Friction force is the force that resists motion between two surfaces that are in contact with each other. It is caused by the microscopic irregularities on the surfaces of objects.

How is friction force calculated?

Friction force is calculated by multiplying the coefficient of friction (a measure of how much friction exists between two surfaces) by the normal force (the force exerted by one object on another).

What factors affect friction force?

The factors that affect friction force include the nature of the surfaces in contact, the coefficient of friction, and the normal force. Other factors such as temperature, speed, and lubrication can also have an impact.

How does friction force affect motion?

Friction force can either help or hinder motion. When the force is greater than the applied force, it can slow down or stop an object's motion. On the other hand, friction force can also be used to increase stability and prevent slipping or sliding.

How can we reduce friction force?

There are several ways to reduce friction force, such as using lubricants, polishing or smoothing surfaces, using wheels or rollers, or applying a smaller normal force. Additionally, finding the optimal combination of surfaces with a lower coefficient of friction can also reduce friction force.

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