Friction Lab Report

FACULTY OF ENGINEERING & TECHNOLOGY
LAB REPORT
EME 1016 APPLIED STATICS
TRIMESTER 1 (2015/2016)
EXPERIMRNT 1: FRICTION
Name: Teng Shieh Maine

ID: 1141327023
Name: Tee Fang Ying
ID: 1141327369
Lab group: Group 8
DATE:27/7/2015
Abstract
The purpose of this experiment is to examine and compare the static and sliding friction
forces (Fs and Fk). We carried out one set of three friction tests as a function of area, weight,
material, and force of gravity. We also made a comparison between the rolling and sliding
friction forces (Fr and Fk) as a function of weight.
In Set 1 of the experiment, we pulled a wooden blocks of varying sizes across the
experiment surface to determine the effects of the the surface area of the block, the weight of the
block and the type of surface on friction force, Ff. In Set 2, we pulled a large block with
additional weights across the experiment surface to determine how the weight of an object
affects friction force, Ff and to find the coefficient of friction, . In Set 3, stand rods were
aligned next to each other to act as the experiment surface. We pulled a wooden block with
additional weights horizontally and parallel to the rod axes to determine the rolling friction
force, Fr and sliding friction force, Fk respectively.
We found that the surface area did not appear to affect friction force, F and the
coefficient of friction, . Weight affects friction force, Ff but does not affect coefficient of
friction, . However, the type of materials in contact directly affects friction force, F and,
coefficient of friction . The type of surface produced the largest percentage difference in values
of coefficient of friction , 75.8% for the change in coefficient of static friction,s and 86.2%
for the change in coefficient of sliding friction, k.
Introduction
The purpose of this experiment is to examine static and sliding friction forces (Fs and Fk)
and the factors that affect it. The factors that are examined within this experiment are the surface
area of the object, the type of surfaces in contact with one another, and the force of gravity
(weight). All of these will be tested and compared to see how they affect the value of friction
forces.
Friction is a force that always opposes the motion of an object. According to velocity,
friction may be classified into static friction force, Fs (when velocity = 0) and sliding friction
force, Fk (when velocity 0). Static friction force, Fs is a force between two objects that are not
moving relative to one another. For example, an object resting on a slope, but not sliding down
the slope, is kept in its position by this friction. Static friction force, Fs must be overcome to
cause an object to move across a surface. Once enough force has been applied to an object, it will
begin to slide across a surface and sliding friction force, Fk will then act on the object. Sliding
friction force, Fk occurs when two objects are moving relative to one another with one object
sliding across the surface of the other and it opposes the motion of the object. Both types of
friction are described by different coefficients. These values are known as the coefficients of
static and sliding friction (s and k) respectively and they are dimensionless.[1] The coefficient
of static friction, s is usually higher than coefficient of sliding friction, k. Coefficients of
friction, is a measure of how easily one object moves in relationship to another. When you
have a high coefficient of friction, , you have a lot of friction between the materials.
Every object in the universe that has mass that exerts a gravitational pull, or force, on
every other mass. The size of the pull depends on the masses of the objects. The experiment uses
the force of gravity (weight) in order to find the maximum static friction force, Fs
on an object before it turns into sliding friction force, Fk. This will help in the understanding of
how the forces will either increase or decrease due to the mass of the object.
Figure 1
A small block was placed on the experiment surface as shown in Figure 1. When no force
is applied to the block, the block remains at a stationary position. At this position, the normal
force, Nf of block is equal to its own weight, W.
Figure 2
When a pulling force, Fp is applied to the block parallel to the horizontal surface, a
friction force, Ff is acting in an opposite direction to the pulling force, Fp. If Fp is smaller than
Ff, the block is not moving. If Fp is equal to Ff, the block is about to move[3]. If Fp is greater than
Ff, the block is moving in the direction of Fp with acceleration.[2] The resultant force is given by
the formula:
Resultant force=F p F f
After that, we can calculate the coefficients of static and sliding friction (s and k) using
the formulas:
=
Ff Fp
=
Nf W
s=
Fs
W
k=
Fk
w
To find the friction force, Ff we measure static friction force, Fs by noting the scale
reading on spring balance just before the block slides. Static friction force, Fs has values from
zero to its maximum value. When the block starts to move and static friction force, Fs has a
maximum value. Once the block starts moving the friction is sliding friction force, Fk i.e.
kinetic friction. We measure sliding friction force, Fk by continuing to pull the block at constant
a speed. After getting the values of static and sliding friction forces (Fs and Fk), we can now
compare with aspect to each factor to find out which factor causes the greatest effect on friction
force, Ff. The equation below is used to calculate the percentage difference:
Differenc e=Value1Value2
Average =
Value 1+ Value2
2
(|
Percentage difference=
|)
Difference
100
Average
Objectives
1.
2.
3.
To determine the static and sliding friction forces (Fs and Fk)as function of:
a) Area
b) Weight
c) Material
and then to compare the friction forces (Fs and Fk) for different areas, weights, and
materials.
To compare rolling and sliding friction forces (Fr and Fk) as a function of weight.
To determine the friction coefficient of friction, in rolling case.
Apparatus
1. One set of four weights, 0.1kg, 0.2kg, 0.5kg and 1 kg with hook.
2. One set of six stand rods with length, 100mm and diameter, 12mm.
3. One set of three spring balances 1N, 5N and 10N.
4. One pair of wooden blocks with one of the sides covered with rubber.
Figure 3: 1kg, 0.5kg, 0.2kg and 0.1kg weights with hook
Figure 4: Stand rods
Figure 5: Spring balances 1N, 5N, 10N
Figure 6: Wooden blocks with one side covered with rubber
Procedure:
Set 1: Static and sliding friction forces as a function of the area, the weight and the
material (Refer to Fig.7)
1
2
3
4
5
The small block with its plastic (rubber) side down is placed on the experiment surface. The
static and sliding friction force, Fs and Fk are measured.
The wooden block is placed on the base surface with its wide wooden side and then narrow
wooden side down. the measurement for Fs and Fk are repeated.
The measurements are repeated with the large block for friction experiments.
The results of FS and FK are plotted as a function of area, weight and material.
The corresponding s and k are determined and the results are plotted as a function of area,
weight, and material.
Figure 7: Measuring the static and sliding friction forces as a function of area, weight and material.
Set 2: Static and sliding forces as a function of the force of gravity (Refer to Fig.8)
1
2
3
The large block is placed on the experiment surface with its plastic side down. The static and
sliding friction forces are measured.
The weight of the block is incresed by adding in turn the weights of 0.1kg, 0.2kg, 0.5kg and
0.8kg. The measurements are repeated.
The same measurements are carried out for the wooden side of the block as well. The results
of Fs , Fk, s and k are plotted as a function of the force of gravity, i.e. weight, W.
Figure 8: Measuring the static and sliding friction force as a function of the force of gravity.
Set 3: Rolling and sliding friction as a function of the force of gravity (Refer to
Fig.9)
Procedure:
1
2
3
4
5
The stand rods are laid next to each other and the large block is placed on the rods with its
plastic side down.
The horizontal pulling force is measured by maintaining a uniform motion on the rolling rods
as. This is the rolling friction force, Fr.
The weight of the block is increased by adding in turn the weights 0.1kg, 0.2kg, 0.5kg and
1.0kg. The measurements are repeated.
The block are aligned parallel to the rod axes. The sliding friction force, Fk is measured.
The graph of sliding friction force and rolling friction force as a function of the force of
gravity is plotted.
Figure 9: Measuring the rolling and sliding friction force as a function of the force of gravity.
Results and Observations:

Constants:
(i)
Acceleration due gravity , g=9.81 m s
0.981 N
(ii) Weight of 0.1 kg mass=(0.1 9.81) N

(iii) Weight of 0.2 kg mass=(0.2 9.81) N
1.962 N
(iv) Weight of 0.5 kg mass=(0.5 9.81) N
4.905 N
(v) Weight of 0.8 kg mass=(0.8 9.81) N
7.848 N
(vi) Weight of 1.0 kg mass=(1.0 9.81) N
9.810 N
General Calculations:
(i) Small Block:
Mass=189.23 g
189.23
kg
1000
Weight=( 0.18923 9.81 ) N
0.18923 kg
1.8563 N
Area of narrow wooden side= ( 0.119 0.0030 ) m 2

Area of wide wooden side=( 0.117 0.060 ) m 2
2
Area of rubber side=( 0.117 0.060 ) m

(ii) Large Block:
0.003570 m2
0.007020 m2
0.007020 m2
Mass=328.63 g
328.63
kg
1000
Weight=( 0.32863 9.81 ) N
0.32863 kg
3.2239 N
Area of narro w wooden side=( 0.117 0.060 ) m2
Area of wide wooden side=( 0.117 0.060 ) m 2

Area of rubber side=( 0.117 0.060 ) m2
0.007020 m
0.007020 m2
0.007020 m2
*Area of all three sides of the large block are the same.
Weight of block with 0.1 kg mass=( 3.2239+0.981 ) N
4.2049 N
Weight of block with0.2 kg mass=( 3.2239+1.962 ) N
5.1859 N
Weight of b lock with 0.5 kg mass=( 3.2239+ 4.905 ) N

Weight of block with 0.8 kg mass= (3.2239+7.848 ) N
11.0719 N
Weight of block with 1.0 kg mass=( 3.2239+ 9.810 ) N

Formula to calculate coefficient of friction, :
=
F
Pulling Force
= p
Weight of Object W
8.1289 N
13.0339 N
Set 1: Static and sliding friction forces as a function of the area, the weight and the material.
1 (i): Measuring Fs, Fk, s and k using the small block with its narrow wooden side down.
Measurement, (N)
Coefficient of Friction,
II
III
IV
Average
Static Friction Force, Fs (N)
0.60
0.50
0.52
0.50
0.58
0.54
0.2909
Sliding Friction Force, Fk (N)
0.30
0.32
0.32
0.34
0.34
0.32
0.1724
Table 1
1 (ii): Measuring Fs, Fk, s and k using the small block with its wide wooden side down.
Measurement, (N)

II
III
IV
0.5
0
0.5
0
0.7
0
0.5
0
0.6
0
0.4
0
0.7
0
0.5
0
0.7
0
0.5
0
Average
0.64
0.3448
0.48
0.2586
Table 2
1 (iii): Measuring Fs, Fk, s and k using the small block with its rubber side down.
Measurement, (N)
I
II
III
IV
Average
1.20 1.30
1.20
1.10
1.00
1.16
0.6249
0.70 0.80
0.70
0.80
0.70
0.74
0.3986
Table 3
1 (iv): Measuring Fs, Fk, s and k using the large block with its wooden side down.
Measurement, (N)
I
II
III
IV
Average
0.90
1.10
0.90
1.10
1.00
1.00
0.3102
0.60
0.70
0.70
0.80
0.70
0.70
0.2171
Table 4
1 (v): Measuring Fs, Fk, s and k using the large block with its rubber side down.
Measurement, (N)
I
II
III
IV
Average
2.40 2.30 2.00
2.20
2.20
2.22
0.6887
1.70 1.80 1.60
1.80
1.90
1.76
0.5460
Table 5
1 (a) Friction Force and Coefficient of Friction as a function of Area

a (i) Graph of Friction Force, F vs. Area
* Constant variable: Material (Wood) and Weight (1.8563N/Small block)
Area, (m2)
0.003570
0.54
0.32
0.006903
0.64
0.48
Table 6
Graph of Friction Force, F vs. Area

0.70
0.65
0.60
0.55
F, (N)
0.50
0.45
0.40
0.35
0.30
0.003000 0.003500 0.004000 0.004500 0.005000 0.005500 0.006000 0.006500 0.007000 0.007500
Area, (m2)
Graph 1
a (ii) Graph of Coefficient of Friction, vs. Area

Area, (m2)
Coefficient of Static Friction, s
Coefficient of Sliding Friction, k
0.003570
0.2909
0.1724
0.006903
0.3448
0.2586
Table 7
Graph of Coefficient of Friction, vs. Area

0.4000
0.3500
0.3000
0.2500
0.2000
0.1500
0.003000 0.003500 0.004000 0.004500 0.005000 0.005500 0.006000 0.006500 0.007000 0.007500
Area, (m2)
Graph 2
1 (b) Friction Force and Coefficient of Friction as a function of Weight

b (i) Graph of Friction Force, F vs. Weight, W
* Constant variable: Material (Wood) and Area (0.007020m2)
Weight, W (N)
1.8563
0.64
0.48
3.2239
1.00
0.70
Table 8
Graph of Friction Force, F vs. Weight, W

1.1
0.9
0.8
F, (N)
0.7
0.6
0.5
0.4
1.6
1.8
2.2
2.4
W, (N)
Graph 3
2.6
2.8
3.2
3.4
b (ii) Graph of Coefficient of Force, vs. Weight, W

Weight, W (N)
1.8563
0.3488
0.2586
3.2239
0.3102
0.2171
Table 9
Graph of Coefficient of Friction, vs. Weight, W

0.3600
0.3400
0.3200
0.3000
0.2800
0.2600
0.2400
0.2200
0.2000
1.6
1.8
2.2
2.4
W, (N)
Graph 4
2.6
2.8
3.2
3.4
b (iii) Graph of Friction Force, F vs. Weight, W

* Constant variable: Material (Rubber) and Area (0.007020m2)
Weight, W (N)
1.8563
1.16
0.74
3.2239
2.22
1.76
Table 10

2.5
1.5
F, (N)
1
0.5
0
1.6
1.8
2.2
2.4
W, (N)
Graph 5
2.6
2.8
3.2
3.4
b (iv) Graph of Coefficient of Force, vs. Weight, W

Weight, W (N)
1.8563
0.6249
0.3986
3.2239
0.6887
0.5460
Table 11

0.7500
0.7000
0.6500
0.6000
0.5500
0.5000
0.4500
0.4000
0.3500
0.3000
1.6000
1.8000
2.0000
2.2000
2.4000
2.6000
W, (N)
Graph 6
2.8000
3.0000
3.2000
3.4000
1 (c) Friction Force and Coefficient of Friction as a function of Material.

c (i) Graph of Friction Force, F vs. Material
* Constant variable: Area (0.007020m2) and Weight (1.8563N/Small block)
Material
Wood
0.64
0.48
Rubber
1.16
0.74
Table 12
Graph of Friction Force, Fs vs. Material

1.4
1.2
0.8
F, (N)
0.6
0.4
0.2
0
Material
Graph 7
c (ii) Graph of Coefficient of Friction, vs. Material

Material
Wood
0.3448
0.2586
Rubber
0.6249
0.3986
Table 13
Graph of Coefficient of Friction, vs. Material

0.7000
0.6000
0.5000
0.4000
0.3000
0.2000
0.1000
0.0000
Material
Graph 8
c (iii) Graph of Friction Force, F vs. Material

* Constant variable: Area (0.007020m2) and Weight (3.2239N/Large block)
Material
Wood
1.00
0.70
Rubber
2.22
1.76
Table 14
Graph of Friction Force, F vs. Material

2.50
2.00
1.50
F, (N)
1.00
0.50
0.00
Material
Graph 9
c (iv) Graph of Coefficient of Friction, vs. Material

Material
Wood
0.3102
0.2171
Rubber
0.6887
0.5460
Table 15
Graph of Coefficient of Friction, vs. Material

0.8000
0.7000
0.6000
0.5000
0.4000
0.3000
0.2000
0.1000
0.0000
Material
Graph 10
The equation used to calculate the percentage difference:

Difference=Value 1Value 2
Average =
Value 1+ Value2
2
100
|( Difference
Average |)
1 (a) Coefficient of Friction as a function of Area

(i) Coefficient of Friction, vs. Area
Area, (m2)
0.003570
0.2909
0.1724
0.006903
0.3448
0.2586
(|
|)
(|
|)
Percentage di fference ( S )=
Percentage difference ( K ) =
0.29090.3448
100 =17.0
(0.2909+ 0.3448)/2
0.17240.2586
100 =40.0
(0.1724+ 0.2586)/2
1 (b) Coefficient of Friction as a function of Weight

(i) Graph of Coefficient of Force, vs. Weight, W
Weight, W (N)
1.8563
0.3488
0.2586
3.2239
0.3102
0.2171
0.3488+0.3102
0.34880.3102
Percentage di fference ( s ) =
0.2586+0.2171
0.25860.2171
(ii) Graph of Coefficient of Force, vs. Weight, W

Weight, W (N)
1.8563
0.6249
0.3986
3.2239
0.6887
0.5460
0.6249+ 0.6887
0.62490.6887
Percentage difference ( s )=
(|
|)
0.39860.5460
100 =31.2
(0.3986+ 0.5460)/2
1 (c) Friction Force and Coefficient of Friction as a function of Material.

(i) Graph of Coefficient of Friction, vs. Material
Material
Wood
0.3448
0.2586
Rubber
0.6249
0.3986
(|
|)
0.34480.6249
100 =57.8
(0.3448+ 0.6249)/2
(|
|)
0.25860.3986
100 =42.6
(0.2586+ 0.3986)/2
(ii) Graph of Coefficient of Friction, vs. Material

Material
Wood
0.3102
0.2171
Rubber
0.6887
0.5460
(|
|)
0.31020.6887
100 =75.8
(0.3102+ 0.6887) /2
(|
|)
0.21710.5460
100 =86.2
(0.2171+0.5460)/2
Set 2: Static and sliding forces as a function of the force of gravity.
2 (i): Measuring Fs, Fk, s and k using the large block with its rubber side down.
Coefficient of
Static Friction, s
Additiona
l Mass,
(kg)
Weight of
block, W
(N)
II
III
IV
Average
0.00
3.2239
2.20
2.30
2.40
2.40
2.50
2.36
0.7320
0.10
4.2049
3.50
3.40
3.40
3.50
3.70
3.5
0.8324
0.20
5.1859
4.50
4.60
4.80
4.80
4.60
4.66
0.8986
0.50
8.1289
7.40
7.60
7.40
7.60
7.40
7.48
0.9202
0.80
11.0719
9.10
9.30
9.40
9.10
9.60
9.30
0.8400
1.00
13.0339
11.00
11.10
11.00
11.20
10.60
10.98
0.8424
Table 16
Additiona
l Mass,
(kg)
Weight of
block, W
(N)
0.00
Coefficient of
Sliding Friction,
k

I
II
III
IV
Average
3.2239
1.90
1.80
1.90
2.00
1.80
1.88
0.5831
0.10
4.2049
2.80
2.70
3.00
2.90
2.90
2.86
0.6802
0.20
5.1859
3.60
3.80
3.80
3.60
3.70
3.7
0.7135
0.50
8.1289
6.40
6.40
6.60
6.60
6.40
6.48
0.7972
0.80
11.0719
7.80
8.10
8.00
7.90
8.20
8.00
0.7225
1.00
13.0339
8.30
9.30
9.10
9.40
9.60
9.14
0.7012
Table 17
2 (ii): Measuring Fs, Fk, s and k using the large block with its wooden side down.
Coefficient of
Static Friction, s
Additional
Mass, (kg)
Weight of
block, W
(N)
II
III
IV
Average
0.00
3.2239
1.00
0.90
1.10
0.90
1.00
0.98
0.3040
0.10
4.2049
1.20
1.40
1.40
1.50
1.50
1.4
0.3329
0.20
5.1859
1.90
2.00
1.90
1.80
2.00
1.92
0.3702
0.50
8.1289
3.10
3.00
3.10
3.00
3.10
3.06
0.3764
0.80
11.0719
3.90
4.10
4.00
3.80
4.00
3.96
0.3577
1.00
13.0339
4.60
4.80
4.60
5.00
5.00
4.8
0.3683
Table 18
Coefficient of
Sliding Friction,
k
Additional
Mass, (kg)
Weight of
block, W
(N)
II
III
IV
Average
0.00
3.2239
0.60
0.80
0.60
0.70
0.60
0.66
0.2047
0.10
4.2049
1.00
1.00
0.90
1.10
0.90
0.98
0.2331
0.20
5.1859
1.50
1.40
1.40
1.50
1.30
1.42
0.2738
0.50
8.1289
2.50
2.40
2.50
2.70
2.50
2.52
0.3100
0.80
11.0719
2.80
2.80
2.90
2.70
2.80
2.80
0.2529
1.00
13.0339
3.20
3.40
3.20
3.40
3.40
3.32
0.2547
Table 19
2 (a) Friction Force and Coefficient of Friction as a function of Gravity

a (i) Graph of Friction Force, F vs. Weight, W
Additional Mass,
(kg)
Weight of block, W
(N)
Static Friction Force, Fs

(N)
Sliding Friction Force, Fk

(N)
0.0
3.2239
2.36
1.88
0.1
4.2049
3.50
2.86
0.2
5.1859
4.66
3.70
0.5
8.1289
7.48
6.48
0.8
11.0719
9.30
8.00
1.0
13.0339
10.98
9.14
Table 20

12
10
F, (N)
10
12
14
W, (N)
Graph 11
a (ii) Graph of Coefficient of Friction, vs. Weight, W

Additional Mass,
(kg)
Weight of block, W
(N)
Coefficient of Static
Friction, s
Coefficient of Sliding
Friction k
0.0
3.2239
0.7320
0.5831
0.1
4.2049
0.8324
0.6802
0.2
5.1859
0.8986
0.7135
0.5
8.1289
0.9202
0.7972
0.8
11.0719
0.8400
0.7225
1.0
13.0339
0.8424
0.7012
Table 21

0.9500
0.9000
0.8500
0.8000
0.7500
0.7000
0.6500
0.6000
0.5500
0.5000
10
12
14
W, (N)
Graph 12
a (iii) Graph of Friction Force, F vs. Weight, W

Additional Mass,
(kg)
Weight of block, W
(N)
Static Friction Force, Fs

(N)

(N)
0.0
3.2239
0.98
0.66
0.1
4.2049
1.40
0.98
0.2
5.1859
1.92
1.42
0.5
8.1289
3.06
2.52
0.8
11.0719
3.96
2.80
1.0
13.0339
4.80
3.32
Table 22

6.00
5.00
4.00
F, (N)
3.00
2.00
1.00
0.00
8
W, (N)
Graph 13
10
12
14
a (iv) Graph of Coefficient of Friction, vs. Weight, W

Additional Mass,
(kg)
Weight of block, W
(N)
Coefficient of Static
Friction, s
Friction k
0.0
3.2239
0.3040
0.2047
0.1
4.2049
0.3329
0.2331
0.2
5.1859
0.3702
0.2738
0.5
8.1289
0.3764
0.3100
0.8
11.0719
0.3577
0.2529
1.0
13.0339
0.3683
0.2547
Table 23

0.4000
0.3500
0.3000
0.2500
0.2000
0.1500
8
W, (N)
Graph 14
10
12
14
Set 3: Rolling and sliding friction as a function of the force of gravity.
3 (i): Measuring Fr, Fk, r and k using the large block with its rubber side down.
Additional
Mass, (kg)
Weight of
block, W
(N)
Coefficient of
Rolling Friction, r
II
III
IV
Average
0.00
3.2239
0.08
0.10
0.08
0.09
0.10
0.09
0.0279
0.10
4.2049
0.18
0.16
0.14
0.18
0.20
0.17
0.0404
0.20
5.1859
0.20
0.22
0.22
0.20
0.20
0.21
0.0405
0.50
8.1289
0.32
0.32
0.34
0.38
0.36
0.34
0.0418
1.00
13.0339
0.56
0.54
0.60
0.50
0.50
0.54
0.0414
Rolling Frictional Force, Fr (N)
Table 24
Additional
Mass, (kg)
Weight of
block, W
(N)
Coefficient of
Sliding Friction, k
II
III
IV
Average
0.00
3.2239
1.60
1.70
1.70
1.50
1.80
1.66
0.5149
0.10
4.2049
2.50
2.50
2.40
2.40
2.40
2.44
0.5803
0.20
5.1859
3.10
3.20
3.30
3.30
3.20
3.22
0.6209
0.50
8.1289
4.20
4.00
4.00
4.00
4.20
4.08
0.5019
1.00
13.0339
8.20
8.80
8.40
8.20
8.60
8.44
0.6475
Sliding Frictional Force Fk (N)
Table 25
3 (a): Friction Force as a function of Gravity

a (i): Graph of Friction Force, F vs. Weight, W
Additional
Mass, (kg)
Weight of
block, W (N)

(N)
Rolling Friction Force, Fr

(N)
0.00
3.2239
1.66
0.09
0.10
4.2049
2.44
0.17
0.20
5.1859
3.22
0.21
0.50
8.1289
4.08
0.34
1.00
13.0339
8.44
0.54
Table 26

9
8
7
6
5
F , (N)
4
3
2
1
0
8
W (N)
Graph 15
10
12
14
a (ii): Graph of Coefficient of friction, vs. Weight, W

Additional Mass,
(kg)
Weight of block, W
(N)
Friction, k
Coefficient of Rolling
Friction, r
0.0
3.2239
0.5149
0.0279
0.1
4.2049
0.5803
0.0404
0.2
5.1859
0.6209
0.0405
0.5
8.1289
0.5019
0.0418
1.0
13.0339
0.6475
0.0414
Table 27

0.7
0.6
0.5
0.4
0.3
0.2
0.1
8
Weight, W (N)
Graph 16
10
12
14
Discussion:
Figure 10
1.
When an object is subjected to a an external force, pulling force, Fp, it experiences

friction force, Ff in the opposite direction. When friction force, Ff is of the same
magnitude as the pulling force, Fp, the object is moving at constant velocity. Hence,
F f =F p
At the same time, the object also experiences force from its weight, weight, W and a
resultant force due to its weight, normal force, Nf. These two forces are always equal in
magnitude but acts in opposing directions. Thus, it can be said that
N f =W
The general formula used to obtain the coefficient of friction, is
=
Frictional Force F f
=
Normal Force
Nf
Applying the first two formulas, we get

=
2.
Pulling Force F p
=
Weight
W
Frictional force, Ff can be divided into a three types, static friction force Fs, sliding
friction force Fk and rolling friction force Fr . Static friction force, Fs is the friction that
exists between a stationary object and the surface in which it is resting. Sliding friction
force, Fk is the friction that occurs when two objects are moving relative to each other
while they are in contact. Rolling friction force, Fr is the friction resisting the motion of the
body when it rolls on a surface.
Coefficient of friction, is also divided into three types, coefficient of static friction s
coefficient of sliding friction k, and coefficient of rolling friction r
3.
As a general assumption,
F s> F k
F k> F r
s > k
k > r
Static friction force, Fs is greater than sliding friction force, Fk due to the objects
inertia. To move a stationary object, the pulling force, Fp must be great enough to
overcome the inertia of the object. Sliding friction force, Fk is greater than rolling
friction force, Fr because of the greater friction experience when an object rubs against a
surface. The rolling motion of the object greatly reduces the friction between the two
bodies. The relation between static friction force, Fs and sliding friction force, Fk is
shown in the graph below.
Figure 11
Set 1: Static and sliding friction forces as a function of the area, the weight and the material.
1.
To determine the static and sliding friction forces (Fs and Fk) as a function of the area,
the weight and the material, we repeated the experiment and its procedures with different
values of area, weight, and material. The small block and large block allowed us to
experiment with different value of weight (eg. 1.8563N for the small block and 3.2239N
for the large block). Their dimensions provided us with different values of area (eg.
0.003570m2 and 0.007020m2). It should be noted that the large block had the same area
for its narrow and wide side. This limited our findings in ways that will be discussed later
in this section. Both blocks also had a side made of rubber. This made it possible for us to
compare the effects of different materials.
2.
In section 1(a) of the results, we compared the static friction force, Fs and sliding
friction force, Fk as a function of area. To do this, we had to keep the weight and the
material in contact with the surface constant. As the large block had the same area for its
wide and narrow surface, we were not able to use the measurements using the large block
in this part. To keep the weight constant, we only compared measurements made with the
small block and to keep the material constant, we compared measurements made when
the wooden side of the block was placed on the bottom.
3.
From Table 6 and Graph 1, it can be seen that both static friction force, Fs and sliding
friction force, Fk increases slightly with increasing area. The same is shown in Table 7
and Graph 2 for the respective coefficients of friction, . However, theoretically, friction
will not increase with area. This is assumption is based on the formulas:
F f = N f
Pressure=
Force
Area
If we increase the contact area of the small block, we also decrease the pressure acting on
the contact surface as well. This decrease in pressure and increase in surface area cancels
out each other in the end. Therefore, there is only a slight difference in the friction forces
when the area is increased. The same applies to the coefficients of friction, .
4.
In section 1(b), we compared static friction force, Fs and sliding friction force, Fk as a
function of weight. In this section, we kept the area and material in contact with the
surface constant. As the wooden surface of the large block had the same area as the wide
wooden side of the small block we were able to compare these two measurements. This
also applies to the rubber side of both blocks. Thus we were able to compare the friction
force with the weight in two different ways, with the wooden side and rubber side on the
bottom.
5.
Table 8, Table 10, Graph 3 and Graph 5 shows that static friction force, Fs and sliding
friction force, Fk increases significantly with increasing weight. This is because friction
is directly proportional to the normal force. A greater value for weight will produce a
greater value of normal force. More pulling force is needed to overcome the higher
frictional force.
Based on Table 9, Table 11 , Graph 4 and Graph 6, we see that there is little difference
between the coefficients of friction, when the weight increases. This is based on the
formula:
=
Pulling Force F p
=
Weight
W
As weight increases, the frictional force also increases. This produces a constant value for
the coefficient of friction, . The fluctuation from a constant value might be due to
inconsistent pulling force or parallax error that occurred when taking the measurements.
6.
In section 1(c) we compare static friction force, Fs and sliding friction force, Fk as a
function of material. For accurate results, we compared measurements that we obtained
when using the same weight and area. To achieve this, we compared measurements made
when using the small block with its wide wooden side down with measurements made
when using the small block with its rubber side down. For the large block, we used
measurements obtained when using its wooden side and rubber side.
7.
Table 12, Table 14, Graph 7 and Graph 9 shows that static friction force, Fs and sliding
friction force, Fk increases with greatly when changing the material from wood to rubber.
This happens because the properties of rubber make it softer. The irregularities on the
rubber surface get interlocked easier with the microscopic bumps on the table. Hence, it
has a better grip on the surface of the table compared to wood. This results in more
friction between the rubber and the table compared to wood. The static and sliding
friction forces (Fs and Fk) of the large block is greater than the small block due to the
difference in weight, as discussed previously in 5.
Table 13, Table 15, Graph 8 and Graph 10 all show that the coefficients of friction,
experience a significant increase when changing from wood to rubber. This occurs
because of the increase in their relative frictional forces.
8. To calculate the percentage difference, we used the formula:
(|
|)
Difference
100
Average
1.
Based on the calculation, we found out that the change in material, from wood to rubber
made the most difference. With all percentages reaching above 40%. The effect from the
change in material was most prominent when using the large block. On the other hand,
changes in weight made the least difference, with the lowest percentage of less then 10%
Set 2: Static and sliding forces as a function of the force of gravity.
To determine the static and sliding friction forces (Fs and Fk) as a function of the force of
gravity (weight), we repeated the experiment with different values of weight and material
using the large block. To provide a range of different weights, we use the weights
provided to increase the weight of the block. We repeated the experiment twice, once
using the wooden side of the block and the second time using the rubber side of the
block. The area was kept constant at 0.007020m2.
2.
In section 2(a)(i) and 2(a)(ii) of the results, we compared the static friction force, Fs and
sliding friction force, Fk as a function of weight and coefficient of static friction, s
and coefficient of sliding friction, k as a function of weight respectively. We kept the
area constant and used the rubber side for this set of measurements.
3.
From Table 20 and Graph 11 we understand that as the weight increases, both the static
friction force, Fs and sliding friction force, Fk increases steadily with it. The line of best
fit shows us that the measurement taken did not stray and followed a pattern. As
discussed before, the static friction force, Fs is greater than the sliding friction force, Fk
due to the effects of inertia when the block is stationary.
4.
From Table 21 and Graph 12, it is shown that both coefficients of friction, do not
experience significant change in their value. They also do not follow a general pattern.
Increasing as little at first then experiencing a decrease in their final values. In an ideal
situation, the coefficient of static friction, s and coefficient of sliding friction, k are
constant for any weight of the block, as long as the characteristics of the two interacting
surfaces do not change. The coefficients of friction, fluctuate around a certain constant
value. This fluctuations may have been caused by inconsistent force when pulling the
block. The microscopic bumps and irregular surface may also cause the changing values.
Any increased force could cause deformation of the surface in such a way that the value
of the coefficients will change. This causes the ranges of values. The properties of the
rubber surface contribute to this.
5.
In section 2(a)(iii) and 2(a)(iv), we compared the static friction force, Fs and sliding
friction force, Fk as a function of weight and coefficient of static friction, s and
coefficient of sliding friction, k friction as a function of weight respectively. We kept the
area constant as in 2(a)(i) and 2(a)(ii) but instead of the rubber side, we used the wooden
side for this set of measurements.
6.
7.
From Table 22 and Graph 13, we can see the static friction force, Fs and sliding friction
force, Fk increase as the weight increases. They follow the same pattern and reasoning as
the results from 2(a)(i).
Table 23 and Graph 14 shows a similar pattern as the results from Table 21 and Graph 12
but with more consistency and with generally lower values. The same idea applies for this
set of results. However, the more consistent values may be caused by the material used
for this part of the experiment, which was the wooden side of the block. It was easier to
maintain a constant and steady pulling for the wood as its properties allowed it to rest and
slide on the surface of the table easier than the rubber side. Nevertheless, The grain of the
wood, for example, could cause the value of the coefficients of friction, to vary as the
objects slide over each other. The lower values of the coefficients of friction, is due to
the properties of the wooden surface.
Set 3: Rolling and sliding friction as a function of the force of gravity.

1.
To determine the rolling and sliding friction forces (Fr and Fk) as a function of gravity
(weight), we did the experiment with different values of weight using the large block. As
in Set 2, we added weight to the block to vary its weight. The area was kept constant at
0.007020m2 and only the rubber side was used on the metal rods. The experiment was not
conducted on the tables surface even when measuring the sliding friction force, Fk as to
keep the two surfaces constant. Thus, we cannot compare the measurements of the
sliding friction force, Fk from Set 2 with Set 3. Due to the properties of the metal surface
which is much smoother than the table, the measurements when taken with the metal
surface will always be lower.
2.
In section 3(a)(i), we compared the sliding friction force, Fk and rolling friction force,
Fr as a function of weight. We kept the area and material constant when taking the
measurements.
3.
From Table 26 and Graph 15, we see that as weight increases, both sliding friction force,
Fk and rolling friction force, Fr increases with it. As the weight of the block increases,
the value for normal force acting on the block also increases. This puts more pressure on
the block with the surface of the metal rods, increasing the friction between these two
surfaces. These results are consistent with what was discussed previously. However, the
line of best fit for the sliding friction force, Fk has a significantly higher value for its
gradient than the line of best fit of rolling friction force, Fr. This occurs because rolling
friction is the resistance to motion experienced by a body when it rolls upon another. It is
much less than sliding friction for same pair of bodies. When one body rolls upon
another, there is theoretically, no sliding or slip between them. This results in the rolling
friction force, Fr being much less than sliding friction and experiencing less change than
the sliding friction force, Fk with increasing the increasing weight of the block.
4.
In section 3(a)(i), we compared the coefficient of sliding friction, k and coefficient of

rolling friction, r as a function of weight.
5.
From Table 27 and Graph 16, it is apparent that both coefficient of sliding friction, k
and coefficient of rolling friction, r, do not increase with the mass. Instead they fluctuate
around an average value. This has been discussed in Set 2.
6.
The average value of coefficient of rolling friction, r is taken as its theretical value.
Therefore we conclude that the coefficient of rolling friction, r is 0.0384
Conclusion:
1.
Static friction force, Fs and sliding friction force, Fk does not increase with increasing
area.
2.
Coefficient of static friction, s and coefficient of sliding friction, k does not increase
with increasing area.
3.
Static friction force, Fs and sliding friction force, Fk increases with the increasing weight
of the object.
4.
Coefficient of static friction, s and coefficient of sliding friction, k does not increase
with the increasing weight of the object.
5.
Static friction force, Fs and sliding friction force, Fk increases with the increasing
roughness of the surface in contact.
6.
Coefficient of static friction, s and coefficient of sliding friction, k increases with the
increasing roughness of the surface in contact.
7.
Static friction force, Fs is always greater than sliding friction force, Fk when comparing
surfaces of the same area and material with a constant weight for the object.
8.
The coefficient of static friction, s is always greater than the coefficient of sliding
friction, k when comparing surfaces of the same area and material with a constant
weight for the object.
9.
Sliding friction force, Fk and rolling friction force, Fr increases with the increasing weight
of the object.
10.
Sliding friction force, Fk is always greater than rolling friction force, Fr when comparing
surfaces of the same area and material with a constant weight for the object.
11.
The coefficient of sliding friction, k is always greater than the coefficient of rolling
friction, r when comparing surfaces of the same area and material with a constant weight
for the object.
12.
The coefficient of rolling friction, r is 0.0384.
References:
[1] Victor Jeung, Cathy Liu, Jason Feng, Terry Tong (2011, October 14). Friction Forces Lab:
Finding an objects S and K through the use of tension force (1st ed). [online]. Available:
http://niha0.weebly.com/uploads/9/0/4/7/9047334/friction_lab_report.pdf [July. 25, 2015]
[2]
John Elfick. (2010) Friction. [online] Available :

http://www.uq.edu.au/_School_Science_Lessons/UNPh17, July. 25, 2015 [July. 25, 2015]
[3] Hibbeler, R.C., Friction in Engineering Mechanics: Statics and Dynamics, 6th edition,
New York, USA, MacMillan Publishing Co., 1992, pp 389-392

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FACULTY OF ENGINEERING & TECHNOLOGY

EME 1016 APPLIED STATICS

Name: Teng Shieh Maine

Figure 3: 1kg, 0.5kg, 0.2kg and 0.1kg weights with hook

Figure 4: Stand rods

Figure 5: Spring balances 1N, 5N, 10N

Figure 6: Wooden blocks with one side covered with rubber

Results and Observations:

Acceleration due gravity , g=9.81 m s

(ii) Weight of 0.1 kg mass=(0.1 9.81) N

(iv) Weight of 0.5 kg mass=(0.5 9.81) N

(v) Weight of 0.8 kg mass=(0.8 9.81) N

(vi) Weight of 1.0 kg mass=(1.0 9.81) N

Weight=( 0.18923 9.81 ) N

Area of narrow wooden side= ( 0.119 0.0030 ) m 2

Area of rubber side=( 0.117 0.060 ) m

Weight=( 0.32863 9.81 ) N

Area of narro w wooden side=( 0.117 0.060 ) m2

Area of wide wooden side=( 0.117 0.060 ) m 2

Weight of block with 0.1 kg mass=( 3.2239+0.981 ) N

Weight of block with0.2 kg mass=( 3.2239+1.962 ) N

Weight of b lock with 0.5 kg mass=( 3.2239+ 4.905 ) N

Weight of block with 1.0 kg mass=( 3.2239+ 9.810 ) N

Static Friction Force, Fs (N)

Sliding Friction Force, Fk (N)

Static Friction Force, Fs (N)

Static Friction Force, Fs (N)

Sliding Friction Force, Fk (N)

Static Friction Force, Fs (N)

Sliding Friction Force, Fk (N)

Static Friction Force, Fs (N)

2.40 2.30 2.00

Sliding Friction Force, Fk (N)

1.70 1.80 1.60

1 (a) Friction Force and Coefficient of Friction as a function of Area

Static Friction Force, Fs (N)

Sliding Friction Force, Fk (N)

Graph of Friction Force, F vs. Area

a (ii) Graph of Coefficient of Friction, vs. Area

Coefficient of Static Friction, s

Coefficient of Sliding Friction, k

Graph of Coefficient of Friction, vs. Area

1 (b) Friction Force and Coefficient of Friction as a function of Weight

Static Friction Force, Fs (N)

Sliding Friction Force, Fk (N)

Graph of Friction Force, F vs. Weight, W

b (ii) Graph of Coefficient of Force, vs. Weight, W

Coefficient of Static Friction, s

Coefficient of Sliding Friction, k

Graph of Coefficient of Friction, vs. Weight, W

b (iii) Graph of Friction Force, F vs. Weight, W

Static Friction Force, Fs (N)

Sliding Friction Force, Fk (N)

Graph of Friction Force, F vs. Weight, W

b (iv) Graph of Coefficient of Force, vs. Weight, W

Coefficient of Static Friction, s

Coefficient of Sliding Friction, k

Graph of Coefficient of Friction, vs. Weight, W

1 (c) Friction Force and Coefficient of Friction as a function of Material.

Static Friction Force, Fs (N)

Sliding Friction Force, Fk (N)

Graph of Friction Force, Fs vs. Material

c (ii) Graph of Coefficient of Friction, vs. Material

Coefficient of Static Friction, s