Finding normal force acting on an object (Fn)?

In summary, the normal force (Fn) is a force exerted by a surface on an object in contact with it, always perpendicular and in the opposite direction of the force pushing against it. It can be calculated using the equation Fn = mgcosθ and is equal to the weight of an object when at rest or moving at a constant velocity on a horizontal surface. The normal force (Fn) can be greater or less than the weight of the object, depending on surface angle and other forces. It affects an object's motion by providing support for it to remain at rest or move in a specific direction and can also affect acceleration by balancing out other forces.
  • #1
shamma
6
0
1. A couch with a mass of 100 kg is placed on an adjustable ramp connected to a truck.If the couch slides down the ramp with an acceleration of 0.8 m/s^2:

2. find the normal force on the couch

3. my way:
Fg=m*9.81=981
Fnety=0N
981 sin 270+f sin 180+Fn sin 90=0N
-981Fn=0
Fn=981
my ans is wrong

hint:the ans shold be (Fn=959.6N)
 
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  • #2
Hmm - I get Fn = ma*cot[arc sin(a/g) = 977.73 N

Assumes frictionless plane
 
Last edited:

1. What is normal force (Fn)?

The normal force (Fn) is the force exerted by a surface on an object that is in contact with it. It is always perpendicular to the surface and in the opposite direction of the force pushing against it.

2. How do you calculate the normal force (Fn)?

The normal force (Fn) can be calculated using the equation Fn = mgcosθ, where m is the mass of the object, g is the acceleration due to gravity, and θ is the angle between the surface and the vertical direction.

3. When is the normal force (Fn) equal to the weight of the object?

The normal force (Fn) is equal to the weight of the object when the object is at rest or moving at a constant velocity in a horizontal surface. In this case, the surface is exerting an equal and opposite force to support the weight of the object.

4. Can the normal force (Fn) be greater or less than the weight of the object?

Yes, the normal force (Fn) can be greater or less than the weight of the object. This depends on the angle of the surface and the direction and magnitude of the force acting on the object.

5. How does the normal force (Fn) affect an object's motion?

The normal force (Fn) is responsible for providing the necessary support for an object to remain at rest or move in a certain direction. It can also affect the acceleration of an object by balancing out other forces acting on it.

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