2 Balls on inclined plane problem

Click For Summary
SUMMARY

In the discussion regarding the motion of identical balls on inclined planes, it is established that the balls will reach the bottom simultaneously when neglecting friction and air resistance, despite differing incline angles. The analysis focuses on forces and accelerations for timing and energy considerations for speed. The incline lengths are inherently different due to their angles, which affects the time taken to reach the bottom but not the final speed upon arrival.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of basic physics concepts such as forces and accelerations.
  • Knowledge of energy conservation principles in mechanics.
  • Familiarity with the effects of friction and air resistance on motion.
  • Ability to visualize and analyze inclined planes and their geometrical properties.
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the principles of gravitational potential energy and kinetic energy in motion.
  • Learn about the equations of motion for objects on inclined planes.
  • Explore the effects of friction on rolling versus sliding motion.
  • Investigate real-world applications of inclined planes in engineering and physics.
USEFUL FOR

This discussion is beneficial for physics students, educators, and anyone interested in understanding the dynamics of motion on inclined planes, particularly in the context of energy conservation and acceleration principles.

Bama
Messages
15
Reaction score
0
Identical balls are rolled down 2 inclined planes of the same height but different inclines. Do they reach the bottom at the same time. Neglect friction and air resistance.

Do the balls have the same speed upon reaching the bottom of the incline? :rolleyes:
 
Physics news on Phys.org
do u mean planes of the same length?
 
In my homework assignment, it doesn't mention length. Alicia0
 
Bama said:
In my homework assignment, it doesn't mention length. Alicia0
The inclines cannot have the same length. The balls start from the same height, but one rolls down a shorter plane at a steeper angle.

The first question requires that you think in terms of forces and acclerations. The second is best thought about in terms of energy.
 
Bama said:
Identical balls are rolled down 2 inclined planes of the same height but different inclines. Do they reach the bottom at the same time. Neglect friction and air resistance.

Do the balls have the same speed upon reaching the bottom of the incline? :rolleyes:

If the friction is neglected the balls will slide, will not roll at all.
 
Imagine one incline almost vertical. How long would it take the ball to reach the ground?

Imagine the other incline with a tiny angle from the horizontal so its length is one mile. How long do you think it will take the ball to cover that one mile?
 

Similar threads

Conservation of energy problem: Ball rolling down inclined plane and then through a loop-the-loop
  • · Replies 10 ·
Replies
10
Views
3K
Compute acceleration on an inclined plane with friction
  • · Replies 5 ·
Replies
5
Views
2K
Ball rolling down a slope problem: Find an expression for time taken
  • · Replies 8 ·
Replies
8
Views
5K
Friction direction change in a inclined circular bend (car on a road)
  • · Replies 11 ·
Replies
11
Views
1K
A problem from a physics national competition
  • · Replies 13 ·
Replies
13
Views
1K
Why is the direction of kinetic/static friction up a ramp?
  • · Replies 7 ·
Replies
7
Views
1K
What Are Some Possible Topics for an IB Physics Extended Essay?
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
2K
A ball (sphere) rotating along a moving incline
  • · Replies 14 ·
Replies
14
Views
3K
How Does a Dog Running on a Ball Affect Its Motion on an Inclined Plane?
  • · Replies 11 ·
Replies
11
Views
2K
Which sphere reaches the bottom of the inclined plane first
  • · Replies 19 ·
Replies
19
Views
4K