How do I draw a free-body diagram for an object sliding down an inclined plane?

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SUMMARY

This discussion focuses on the process of drawing free-body diagrams (FBD) for an object sliding down an inclined plane. The user initially struggles with understanding the relationship between the forces acting on the object, particularly the normal force and the angle of inclination. Key resources provided include links to the Physics Classroom, which clarify the concepts of equilibrium and vector forces. Ultimately, the user resolves their confusion after reviewing the recommended materials.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of basic physics concepts, particularly forces and motion.
  • Familiarity with free-body diagrams and their components.
  • Knowledge of trigonometry and geometry as they apply to inclined planes.
  • Ability to interpret diagrams and apply them to physical scenarios.
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the principles of equilibrium in physics, focusing on normal forces.
  • Learn how to apply trigonometric functions to analyze forces on inclined planes.
  • Explore additional resources on drawing free-body diagrams, specifically for various scenarios.
  • Practice creating FBDs for different objects and surfaces to solidify understanding.
USEFUL FOR

This discussion is beneficial for students studying physics, particularly those learning about forces, inclined planes, and free-body diagrams. It is also useful for educators seeking to clarify these concepts for their students.

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Misr said:
Hello there ,
I don't know how to draw free body diagrams ,
so can u illustrate to me how to draw an FBD for an object sliding down a ramp like this one.
http://ffden-2.phys.uaf.edu/211_fall2004.web.dir/Jeff_Levison/freebody_diagram.jpg
illustrate this in details , please

Thanks

This is a rather vague question. What exactly don't you know? The figure already shows you, in detail, what the FBD should look like. So where are you having a problem? When I had students who asked me a question like this, I often find that they're having problems with the mathematics, i.e. trig and geometry, and not the physics.

This is a standard school work. Start with the simpler form, such as a mass on a horizontal surface. Can you draw the FBD for that? In other words, show us what you already know, and we can work from there. It is the only way to figure out the source of your problem.

Zz.
 
such as a mass on a horizontal surface. Can you draw the FBD for that?
Yes i can

I'm havin a prob with the imaginary line down the ramp , which is equilibruim with the normal force
I don't know why do we suppose so.
I don't know why should the angle of inclination of the ramp should equal the angle of inclination of the normal force

I think these are my problems
 
When you draw free-body diagrams, what are the forces you include and don't include? What is the minimum annotation a free-body diagram must have?
 
I don't know
 
Read these:
http://www.physicsclassroom.com/Class/newtlaws/u2l2c.cfm"
http://www.physicsclassroom.com/Class/vectors/u3l3e.cfm"
 
Last edited by a moderator:
Read these:
Drawing Free-Body Diagrams
Inclined Planes
This website is magnificent
Thanks , my problem is solved now .
 

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