Enter the normal force and the coefficient of static friction into the calculator to determine the static friction force.
Static Friction Formula
The following formula is used to calculate the static friction force:
f_s = μ * N
Variables:
- f_s is the static friction force (N)
- μ is the coefficient of static friction (unitless)
- N is the normal force (N)
To calculate the static friction force, multiply the normal force by the coefficient of static friction.
What is Static Friction?
Static friction is the force that must be overcome to start moving an object at rest. It acts in the opposite direction of the applied force and is proportional to the normal force exerted by the surface on the object. The coefficient of static friction is a dimensionless value that represents the ratio of the maximum static friction force to the normal force and varies depending on the materials in contact.
How to Calculate Static Friction?
The following steps outline how to calculate the static friction force:
- First, determine the normal force (N) in newtons.
- Next, determine the coefficient of static friction (μ), which is unitless.
- Use the formula f_s = μ * N to calculate the static friction force.
- Finally, enter the values into the calculator to verify the result.
Example Problem:
Use the following variables as an example problem to test your knowledge.
Normal force (N) = 50 N
Coefficient of static friction (μ) = 0.4