Purchase Solution

Mechanics: Work done against friction

Not what you're looking for?

Ask Custom Question

The problem is: The light horizontal spring has a force constant of k=100 N/m. A 2.00 kg block is pressed against one end of the spring (compressing it 0.100 m). The block is released and moves from rest 0.250 m to the right of the release position. Show that the coefficient of kinetic friction between the block and the horizontal surface is 0.102.

I can understand and do problems that say for example have the mass on a decline and then I can use the W nc = W f =-uk(mg cos theta)x = delta KE + delta PEg _ delta PEs. And I understand how to show what the coefficient of kinetic friction is in that type of formula, but for some reason I can't show how to do it with this problem.

{What I came up with was: -uk (19.6 N Cos theta)(0.250m) = 0 + (19.6 N)(-.250 m sin theta) + 1/2 (100N/m)(0.250m)2} It doesn't seem to work or show that the coefficient is 0.102.

I've attached a drawing for the problem.

Attachments
Purchase this Solution

Solution Summary

The block attached with a compressed spring is released. The block comes to rest at some distance. The coefficient of kinetic friction is calculated.

Solution Preview

1. What is theta you have written in your sol. The spring is horizontal and obviously the surface is horizontal. So here theta is 0.
2. The compression in the spring is 0.100 m and not ...

Purchase this Solution


Free BrainMass Quizzes
Variables in Science Experiments

How well do you understand variables? Test your knowledge of independent (manipulated), dependent (responding), and controlled variables with this 10 question quiz.

Basic Physics

This quiz will test your knowledge about basic Physics.

The Moon

Test your knowledge of moon phases and movement.

Classical Mechanics

This quiz is designed to test and improve your knowledge on Classical Mechanics.

Introduction to Nanotechnology/Nanomaterials

This quiz is for any area of science. Test yourself to see what knowledge of nanotechnology you have. This content will also make you familiar with basic concepts of nanotechnology.