📚 Learning Guide
Friction Coefficient Variations
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If a block of wood slides down an incline and experiences lower friction than expected, what could be a likely cause for this observation?

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Choose the Best Answer

A

The surface of the incline is smoother than anticipated.

B

The weight of the block has increased significantly.

C

The incline angle has become steeper.

D

The block is made of a denser material.

Understanding the Answer

Let's break down why this is correct

Answer

If the wood slides more easily than you expected, the most common reason is that the friction coefficient between the wood and the incline is smaller than you thought. This can happen when the incline surface is smoother or has been lubricated, or when the wood’s surface has been cleaned or coated so that it is less rough. Because friction is proportional to the normal force and the coefficient, a lower coefficient lets the block accelerate faster down the slope. For example, if you polish the wooden board before sliding it, the board will glide more smoothly than a rough, unpolished board, showing a lower friction force.

Detailed Explanation

A smoother surface has fewer bumps that the wood can grip. Other options are incorrect because Some students think that a heavier block slides easier because it feels heavier; Increasing the angle makes the block feel like it is falling faster, but it does not change how the surfaces touch.

Key Concepts

Friction Coefficient
Surface Roughness
Incline Dynamics
Topic

Friction Coefficient Variations

Difficulty

medium level question

Cognitive Level

understand

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