Work done by varying friction against a constantly moving surface

In summary, a metal disk spinning at a constant rate of one cycle per second has a small metal block pressed against it at a radius of four inches. The circumference of the contact path is one foot and the coefficient of kinetic friction between the two is .1. The block is attached to an arm with a bearing and a time-varying force can be applied to manipulate the force between the disk and block. The direction of this force is into the face of the disk and the coefficient of kinetic friction is kept constant. The work that can be done by the block arm against any opposing force is proportional to the normal force applied by the block arm. The conversation is discussing the concept of work and how it relates to the rotation of the block
  • #1
jamesadrian
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Suppose a metal disk is spinning at constant rate of one cycle per second and at a radius of about four inches a small metal block is pressed against the disk. The circumference of the path of the contact is exactly one foot.

The coefficient of kinetic friction between the disk and the small metal block is .1 and the small metal block is attached to an arm (the block arm). The other end of the block arm is attached with a bearing to the center of rotation of the disk.

A time-varying force is applied to the block arm so as to manipulate the force between the disk and the small metal block. This force follows the arm wherever it goes and we need not be concerned about where the force comes from. The direction of this force is into the face of the disk (at a right angle to the surface of the disk, or the normal).

The coefficient of kinetic friction is kept extremely constant, possibly because of the polish of the metal or possibly because of a special lubricant.

If anything opposes the rotation of the block arm, the work (force times distance) that can be done by the block arm against this resistance would seem to be proportional to the normal force applied by the block arm.

Do I have this right?

Thank you for your help.

Jim Adrian
 
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FAQ: Work done by varying friction against a constantly moving surface

What is work done by varying friction against a constantly moving surface?

Work done by varying friction against a constantly moving surface refers to the amount of energy expended by an object due to the force of friction acting against its motion on a surface that is in motion.

How is work done by varying friction calculated?

The work done by varying friction can be calculated by multiplying the force of friction by the displacement of the object in the direction of the frictional force.

What factors affect the amount of work done by varying friction?

The amount of work done by varying friction is affected by the coefficient of friction, the normal force between the object and the surface, and the displacement of the object.

Can work be done by varying friction against a stationary surface?

No, work is only done by varying friction against a constantly moving surface because work is defined as the transfer of energy due to a force acting over a distance.

What is the significance of work done by varying friction in real-world applications?

Work done by varying friction is important in many real-world applications, such as in braking systems for vehicles, where friction is used to slow down or stop the motion of the vehicle. It is also important in machinery and industrial processes, where friction can be both beneficial and detrimental depending on the desired outcome.

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