Lab: Analysis of the Coefficient of Friction

 Analysis:

Formulas:

1. Using the formulas for frictional force and normal force, we arrived at these results when varying the mass:

2. Graphing frictional force vs. normal force:

3. Using the formulas for frictional force and normal force, we arrived at these results when varying the height (angle):

4. Graph of frictional force vs. normal force:

5. Respective Uncertainties:

The two graphs seem to be quite different. Although both linear, their slopes and y-intercepts are not similar.

Conclusion:

The coefficient of kinetic friction for wood on aluminum, calculated by the slopes of the graphs, was found to be 0.7. This does not match with our prediction (within uncertainty) being 0.2.