A ball mass 2kg rests on a slope of angle 60 degrees. If it is stationary, calculate the coefficient of static friction

Because the ball is stationary, the sum of the forces acting on it must be equal to 0. We can split the ball's weight into two components: perpendicular and parallel to the slope.W(para)=2gsin60W(perp)=2gcos60The frictional force is equal to the coefficient of friction multiplied by the normal reaction force. We know this reaction force, N, must balance W(perp)N=W(perp)=2gcos60Since the frictional force (F=uN) must be equal to W(para), we can find the coefficient of friction by dividing W(para) by N, to give u=tan60

ME
Answered by Milo E. Physics tutor

1673 Views

See similar Physics IB tutors

Related Physics IB answers

All answers ▸

How can I derive the energy of an electron using the electron in a box model?


An electron is trapped within a square well potential of width 10 nm. What would be the wavelength of the photon emitted when an electron moves from the first energy level to the ground level.


What's the value of the normal force of a vehicle on a convex bridge? What about a concave one?


If an object going in a circle has a force acting on it then why is it travelling at a constant speed


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

MyTutor is part of the IXL family of brands:

© 2025 by IXL Learning