Physlet Illustration: Static Friction

 

 

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F = Newtons m = kg 

 
A block is being pulled across a rough floor by a constant, horizontal force, as shown. It starts from rest, and its velocity is shown in m/s. Adjust the mass (1 kg < m < 500 kg) and/or the pulling force (0 N < F < 10000 N), and determine the coefficient of static friction between the block and the floor.

Hints

  1. If you pull with a small force, why doesn't the box move?
  2. What minimum force is needed to just start a particular mass moving?
  3. How does this minimum moving force relate to the force of static friction?
  4. How does the coefficient of friction relate to the force of friction?

Reference

See Walker, Section 6-1

Illustration written by Steve Mellema and Chuck Niederriter