Date: 15/04/2024

Surname: James

Initials: M.L

Student Number: 223201410

Experiment 6 – Calculating the Coefficient of Friction of Various

Surfaces

Aim:

The aim of this experiment is to determine the acceleration of a block, in the absence of
friction and to determine the effect of an incline plane on the acceleration. Additionally, we
must calculate the kinetic friction of various surfaces.

Theory:

The experiment investigates fundamental physics principles, particularly focusing on the

dynamics of friction and motion. Kinetic friction, which acts to resist the movement between
contacting surfaces, is a pivotal aspect being examined. Its magnitude varies based on the
specific properties of the surfaces involved and the force pressing them together. By
quantifying the force necessary to overcome kinetic friction, the experiment seeks to analyze
this phenomenon across different surface types. Furthermore, the concept of acceleration
plays a central role, representing the rate of change in velocity. By adjusting incline angles,
the experiment aims to explore how gravitational forces influence acceleration along the
incline. This inquiry offers insights into the complex relationship between gravitational force,
friction, and surface characteristics, thus enriching our understanding of classical mechanics
principles [1].

Experimental Procedure:

Apparatus:

• Dynamometer
• An unknown mass
• 50g masses
Procedure:

1. Position the block of mass, m, on the transparent.

2. Record the minimum force required to move the block.
3. Calculate the acceleration.
4. Repeat the previous steps placing the block on a bench and on a piece of white paper.
5. When using the white paper, place a mass on the paper to prevent it from moving i.e.
increase the frictional force between the paper and the surface it is on.
6. Add 50g, 100g, 150g and finally 200g masses to the block and measure the minimum
force exerted that causes motion of the block.
7. Tabulate results and calculate the respective coefficient of friction (𝜇𝑘 ).
8. Now repeat the procedure with the block on an incline plane with incline angles of
𝜃 = 30°, 67°, 𝑎𝑛𝑑 90°.

Bibliography

[ R. G. Charlton Wake, “Study.com,” [Online]. Available: https://study.com/skill/learn/how-

1 to-calculate-the-force-of-kinetic-friction-for-a-moving-object-on-an-incline-
] explanation.html#:~:text=Kinetic%20Frictional%20Force%3A%20The%20frictional,the
%20coefficient%20of%20kinetic%20friction.. [Accessed 15 04 2024].