coefficient of friction
What coefficient of friction means in Mathematics A-Level, as defined for AQA, Pearson Edexcel, WJEC.
Definitions of coefficient of friction
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Reference: WJEC
A dimensionless scalar constant that characterises the microscopic roughness and adhesiveness between two contacting surfaces, being the ratio of limiting friction to normal reaction.
The dimensionless constant μ in the relationship F = μR at limiting equilibrium.
The dimensionless constant μ in the model F ≤ μR that sets the maximum possible static friction or limiting friction.
Topics that use coefficient of friction
- R: Forces and Newton’s laws (AQA A-Level)
- Forces and Newton’s laws (Pearson Edexcel A-Level)
- Forces and Newton’s laws (A2 Unit 4: Applied Mathematics B) (WJEC A-Level)
Related terms
- limiting equilibrium
- normal reaction
- Resultant force
- Equilibrium
- force
- Newton's first law
- Newton's second law
- Newton’s third law
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