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What is the coefficient of kinetic friction of wood on a desk?

A. μₖ = 0.30
B. μₖ = 0.03
C. μₖ = 3.00
D. μₖ = 0.003

User DecPK
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1 Answer

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Final answer:

The coefficient of kinetic friction between wood and a desk is approximately 0.30.

Step-by-step explanation:

The coefficient of kinetic friction between wood and a desk can vary depending on the specific materials involved. However, based on the given answer options, the closest value to the coefficient of kinetic friction of wood on a desk is option A. μₖ = 0.30.

The coefficient of kinetic friction represents the ratio of the force of kinetic friction between two objects to the normal force pressing the objects together. It is a dimensionless quantity that ranges between 0 (no friction) and 1 (maximum friction).

For example, if the coefficient of kinetic friction between wood and a desk is 0.30, it means that when a wooden object slides on a desk, the force of friction between the two surfaces is 30% of the normal force pressing them together.

Taking into account that these values are approximations, it's important to remember that they can vary heavily due to different conditions such as surface roughness, material characteristics, and presence of lubrication, as indicated in some physics educational materials. However, the values are not typically as high as 3.00 for common surfaces like wood on wood or wood on a desk, which makes Option C highly unlikely.

User PSK
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