Question

A 25.0 kg block is initially at rest on a horizontal surface. A horizontal force of 75.0 N is required to set the block in motion, after which a horizontal force of 60.0 N is required to keep the block moving with constant speed. Find
(a) the coefficient of static friction.
(b) the coefficient of kinetic friction between the block and the surface.

Answer 1

Answer:

(a) 0.31

(b) 0.245

Explanation:

(a)

F' = μ'mg.................... Equation 1

Where F' = Horizontal Force required to set the block in motion, μ' = coefficient of static friction, m = mass of the block, g = acceleration due to gravity.

make μ' the subject of the equation above

μ' = F'/mg............. Equation 2

Given: F' = 75 N, m = 25 kg

constant: g = 9.8 m/s²

Substitute these values into equation 2

μ' = 75/(25×9.8)

μ' = 75/245

μ' = 0.31.

(b) Similarly,

F = μmg.................. Equation 3

Where F = Horizontal force that is required to keep the block moving with constant speed, μ = coefficient of kinetic friction.

make μ the subject of the equation

μ = F/mg.............. Equation 4

Given: F = 60 N, m = 25 kg, g = 9.8 m/s²

Substitute these values into equation 4

μ  = 60/(25×9.8)

μ = 60/245

μ = 0.245