Calculating Box Mass Using Normal Reaction Force and Inclined Angle

  • Thread starter Thread starter olee
  • Start date Start date
  • Tags Tags
    Sine/cosine
Click For Summary

Homework Help Overview

The problem involves calculating the mass of a box resting on a smooth slope inclined at an angle of 18° to the horizontal, given the normal reaction force of 79 N. The context is centered around the application of forces in a physics problem related to inclined planes.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Assumption checking, Problem interpretation

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the conditions under which the box is held at rest and question the implications of the holding force's direction. There is mention of needing a vector triangle or free body diagram to analyze the forces acting on the box.

Discussion Status

The discussion is ongoing, with participants exploring different interpretations of the problem setup. Some guidance has been offered regarding the need for a diagram to visualize the forces, but there is no consensus on how to proceed with the calculations.

Contextual Notes

There is uncertainty regarding the nature of the force holding the box at rest and its relationship to the normal reaction force. Participants are also navigating the constraints of not providing direct answers while seeking clarification on the problem.

olee
Messages
24
Reaction score
0

Homework Statement



A box is held at rest on a smooth slope. The slope is inclined at an angle of 18◦ to the
horizontal. Given that the normal reaction force between the box and the slope is 79 N, what
is the mass of the box?

Homework Equations


none


The Attempt at a Solution



well, i posted a relatively easy example but I'm finding it hard to resolve it. i know about this triangle

aox0za.png


but I am not too sure when I'm meant to use it and how it works.

diagram annotated replies would be a real help.
thanks!
 
Physics news on Phys.org
olee said:
A box is held at rest on a smooth slope. The slope is inclined at an angle of 18◦ to the horizontal. Given that the normal reaction force between the box and the slope is 79 N, what is the mass of the box?

How is it held at rest?

If the force holding it isn't parallel to the slope, it will alter the reaction force. :confused:
 
well I am not too sure :S but that's the question
 
ok, well let's assume that the force holding it is parallel to the slope. :smile:

Your diagram only shows how to resolve a force F into components along two perpendicular axes … it doesn't really help with this question.

You need a vector triangle or free body diagram showing the three forces on the box (weight, normal force, and holding force). :wink:
 
Answer deleted.

OP use Newtons law..
 
Last edited:
Susanne, please don't give the answer. :wink:
 
tiny-tim said:
Susanne, please don't give the answer. :wink:

There ;)
 

Similar threads

  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
3K
  • · Replies 11 ·
Replies
11
Views
4K
Replies
1
Views
3K
  • · Replies 9 ·
Replies
9
Views
4K
Replies
4
Views
2K
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
3K
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
2K
  • · Replies 8 ·
Replies
8
Views
2K
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
3K
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
2K