Jump to content

A limit to friction?


Visionary

Recommended Posts

Two surfaces are placed. Surface block with the surface of the ground.

The Coefficient of Friction (COF) is 0.1 between them. Friction is because of force acting downwards.

The force is = x. By increase "x" to 100 times, will friction increase? I assume yes, but isn't there a limit?

Edited by Visionary
Link to comment
Share on other sites

Two surfaces are placed. Surface block with the surface of the ground.

The Coefficient of Friction (COF) is 0.1 between them. Friction is because of force acting downwards.

The force is = x. By increase "x" to 100 times, will friction increase? I assume yes, but isn't there a limit?

It is also of course related to the forces acting parallel to that, resisting the motion. I believe the coefficient is fairly stable within the yield points of the surfaces for most materials. Beyond that, with the materials stressed beyond their elastic and ultimate limits, things would change considerably with a number of factors coming into play.

Link to comment
Share on other sites

Ah, I remember in my Physics class that the COF stays constant no matter what, wasn't sure till now.

Indeed, if the force of x increases the physical properties of that object could get damaged.

I think "no matter what" may be a somewhat overstatement based on the simplest model, but it is usually fairly accurate in that range.

 

Keep in mind that static friction is usually greater than that once the motion has started.

 

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Friction#Coefficient_of_friction

Link to comment
Share on other sites

I agree.

Friction = COF x Normal Force

 

I assumed, by increasing N friction would not increase.

But indeed it will, but maybe the limit is when the object breaks.

 

Remember that from a mechanics course and theoretical view that it is maximum friction which equals coefficient of static friction times the normal - the frictional force before movement will equal and oppose exactly any motive force upto the limit of mu_s * N. kinetic friction is not a equal and opposing force with a maximum in the same way

Link to comment
Share on other sites

Create an account or sign in to comment

You need to be a member in order to leave a comment

Create an account

Sign up for a new account in our community. It's easy!

Register a new account

Sign in

Already have an account? Sign in here.

Sign In Now
×
×
  • Create New...

Important Information

We have placed cookies on your device to help make this website better. You can adjust your cookie settings, otherwise we'll assume you're okay to continue.