a 20newton object Is pulled along a horizontal surface at a constant velocity by a 30N force. What is the coefficient of friction
To find the coefficient of friction, we need to use the equation that relates the force of friction to the normal force and the coefficient of friction. The normal force is the force exerted by the horizontal surface on the object, which is equal to the gravitational force acting on the object when it's on a horizontal surface.
First, let's calculate the normal force:
The gravitational force acting on an object can be found using the formula F_gravity = m * g, where m is the mass of the object and g is the acceleration due to gravity (approximately 9.8 m/s^2).
Given that the weight of the object is equal to the gravitational force acting on it, we can find the mass:
Weight = m * g
20 N = m * 9.8 m/s^2
m = 20 N / 9.8 m/s^2
m ≈ 2.04 kg
Now, let's calculate the force of friction:
The force of friction can be calculated using the equation F_friction = μ * F_normal, where μ is the coefficient of friction.
Since the object is pulled at a constant velocity, the force of friction opposes the applied force, meaning the force of friction is equal to the applied force.
F_applied = 30 N
Thus, we can now write the equation:
F_friction = μ * F_normal
30 N = μ * F_gravity
To find the coefficient of friction, we need to rearrange the equation and solve for μ:
μ = F_applied / F_gravity
μ = 30 N / (2.04 kg * 9.8 m/s^2)
μ ≈ 1.49
Therefore, the coefficient of friction is approximately 1.49 for this scenario.