Inclined Plane Experiment: Iron Ball Attraction and Stopping Behavior

In summary, when an iron ball is allowed to roll down an inclined plane with a magnet fixed at the bottom, the rolling ball is attracted towards the magnet. However, if two iron balls are allowed to roll down, they may stop in between on the plane due to the first ball being magnetized by the magnet and attracting the second ball towards it. The friction generated between the balls and the magnetic force may also contribute to them stopping.
  • #1
physics.cie
17
0
When an iron ball is allow to roll down the inclined plane such that magnet is fixed at the bottom of plane then rolling ball is attracted towards the magnet. But if two iron balls all allow to roll down then they stop in between on plane. Why
 
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  • #2
Shot in the dark, but perhaps the first ball is magnetized by the magnet as it approaches, which then attracts the second one towards it, and the friction generated between them (plus the magnetic force?) causes them to stop rolling.
 
  • #3
I agree with your answer. But is that friction enough to avoid attraction on inclined plane
 
  • #4
physics.cie said:
I agree with your answer. But is that friction enough to avoid attraction on inclined plane

What do you mean by "avoid attraction on inclined plane"?
 
  • #5
Attraction towards the magnet
 

1. What is an inclined plane?

An inclined plane is a simple machine that consists of a flat surface that is set at an angle to the ground. It is used to help lift or move objects by reducing the amount of force needed to do so.

2. How does an inclined plane work?

An inclined plane works by increasing the distance over which a force is applied, which reduces the amount of force needed to move an object. This is known as the mechanical advantage of the inclined plane.

3. What is the equation for calculating the mechanical advantage of an inclined plane?

The mechanical advantage of an inclined plane can be calculated by dividing the length of the inclined plane by its height. This equation is MA = length/height.

4. How does friction affect the use of an inclined plane?

Friction can reduce the mechanical advantage of an inclined plane, as it opposes the motion of the object being moved. Therefore, the steeper the angle of the inclined plane, the less friction will affect the object.

5. What are some real-life examples of inclined planes?

Inclined planes can be found in many everyday objects, such as ramps for wheelchairs and cars, escalators, and slides. They are also used in construction for moving heavy objects and in agriculture for loading hay onto trucks.

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