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mellybug
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Homework Statement
A 230.0 kg bear grasping a vertical tree slides down at constant velocity. What is the friction force between the bear and the tree?
Friction is a force that resists the relative motion between two surfaces in contact. It is caused by the irregularities on the surfaces and the intermolecular forces between them.
The formula for calculating force of friction is F = μN, where F is the force of friction, μ is the coefficient of friction, and N is the normal force.
The coefficient of friction can be determined by dividing the force of friction by the normal force. It can also be found using experimental methods, such as measuring the force required to move an object across a surface.
The force of friction is affected by factors such as the type of surfaces in contact, the roughness of the surfaces, the normal force, and the presence of lubricants.
The force of friction acts in the opposite direction of motion, slowing down or preventing movement. It also converts kinetic energy into thermal energy, causing objects to heat up. In some cases, friction can be beneficial, such as providing grip for tires on a road. However, it can also be a hindrance, such as in the case of sliding friction in machines, which can increase wear and decrease efficiency.