Question

A block of aluminum is sliding across a wooden surface. the normal force between the block and surface is 30 n. if the coefficient of kinetic friction between aluminum and wood is 0.5, what is the friction force on the block? responses

Answer 1

The friction force on the block of aluminum is 15 N.

Step-by-step explanation:

To determine the friction force, we can use the formula
`\( F_{\text{friction}} = \mu_(k) * F_{\text{normal}} \)`, where
`\( \mu_(k) \)` is the coefficient of kinetic friction, and
`\( F_{\text{normal}} \)` is the normal force. In this scenario, the coefficient of kinetic friction
`\( \mu_(k) \)` is given as 0.5, and the normal force
`\( F_{\text{normal}} \)` is 30 N. Plugging in these values, we get
`\( F_{\text{friction}} = 0.5 * 30 = 15 \) N.`

The friction force of 15 N represents the resistance the wooden surface exerts on the sliding aluminum block. This force opposes the direction of motion and is proportional to the normal force pressing the block against the surface. The coefficient of kinetic friction (0.5 in this case) is a dimensionless quantity that characterizes the interaction between the materials—the higher the coefficient, the stronger the frictional force. Understanding and calculating friction forces are crucial in physics and engineering applications, providing insights into the dynamics of objects in motion and helping in designing systems with optimal performance.