Lab Report Template

For the attention of: Insert name of tutor here

Report author: Insert your name here

Report author ID: Insert student ID here

Module name & code: Insert the name of the module and code here

Course name: Insert the name of the course you are on here

Date: Insert date here

Abstract

Use this space to complete the Abstract.

A summary of the essential aspects of the report.

It should summarize all the information presented in the report, including the purpose of the experiment, key findings, significance, and main conclusions.

An abstract should be brief, i.e. contain 100-200 words.

Abstracts are hard to write.

Contents

Abstract ii

Nomenclature iv

1 Introduction 1

1.1 Aim

2 Background Theory 1

2.1 Error! Bookmark not defined.

2.2 Error! Bookmark not defined.

3 Experimental Procedure 2

3.1 Equipment 2

3.2 Procedure 2

4 Results 3

5 Discussion 4

6 Conclusions 5

7 References 14

Nomenclature

Use this space to complete the Nomenclature.

A catalogue conveying the meaning of key symbols used within the report.

Introduction

Friction is the force resisting the relative motion of solid surfaces; dry friction resists relative lateral motion of two solid surfaces in contact. Static friction is friction between two solid objects that are not moving relative to each other. For example, static friction can prevent an object from sliding down a sloped surface. The static friction force must be overcome by an applied force before an object can move.

The coefficient of static friction is typically denoted by the symbol µs.

1.1 Aim of the Experiment

To determine the coefficient of limiting friction between several different pairs of surfaces in contact using two different experimental techniques:

A horizontal plane.

An inclined plane.

Background Theory

2.1 Test 1: Horizontal Plane

If the slider moves along the plane with constant velocity after being disturbed, the force P is equal to the friction force F resisting the motion (Figure 1). The coefficient of limiting friction is given by, µ=F/R

Figure 1: Forces for Horizontal Plane

2.2 Test 2: Inclined Plane

For a plane inclined at an angle θ to the horizontal (Figure 2),

mgsin θ = F and mgcos θ = R

μ=F/R ∴ µ=mgsinθ/mgcosθ

Hence μ=tanθ

Figure 2: Forces for Inclined Plane

Experimental Procedure

Test 1: Horizontal Plane

Set the plane horizontal using the spirit level. Use the3 feet to level the table.

Select a slider. Make a note of the surfaces in contact and the mass of the slider.

Clean the slider and table using Isopropanol cleaning solvent. Squirt a small amount onto a folder paper towel, not straight onto the surface. Note, use as little as possible and avoid breathing the fumes. Small amounts are not a problem. Gloves and safety spectacles are provided for the person using the cleaner. Do not clean the brake material.

Place the slider carefully on the plane with a 1kg mass inside.

Attach the cord to the slider and attach a mass hanger to the free end with the cord passing over the pulley.

Adjust the mass on the hanger until the slider just moves along the surface at a constant speed after being disturbed with a light finger tap. It does not need to travel the full length of the table. Always start from the