How can you measure sliding friction?

Answer 1

Since friction is a force, you need either a force meter or a ramp to measure it. It would be easier to measure with the force meter, but the ramp is more reliable.

Method 1: Force meter.

- attach a force meter to the object.

- place the object on the horizontal surface you want to test.

- pull the object horizontally until it moves. Keep pulling, while looking at the force meter.

- the sliding friction is the average value of that force as you keep pulling.

Method 2: Ramp

- place your object on the ramp. the ramp should have as its surface the material you want to test.

- raise 1 end of the ramp until the object begins to slide. this is the maximum angle you need.

- Decrease the angle of elevation slightly.

- place the object again on the ramp and nudge it. If it keeps moving, decrease the angle again. Repeat until the object is seen to stop after the nudge.

- Use the equation friction = weight of the object in newtons x tangent of the angle.

- repeat all steps and take an average value.