Can the normal force be in vertical direction?

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the nature of the normal force and its potential directionality. Participants clarify that the normal force can indeed act in a vertical direction, counteracting gravitational force, which acts vertically downward. Misunderstandings arise from confusing horizontal and vertical forces, but it is established that the normal force is independent of gravity's direction. The normal force is defined as the force exerted by a surface to support the weight of an object resting on it.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of Newton's Laws of Motion
  • Basic knowledge of force vectors
  • Familiarity with concepts of normal force and gravitational force
  • Ability to differentiate between horizontal and vertical forces
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the concept of normal force in physics textbooks or resources
  • Explore vector decomposition in physics to understand force directions
  • Learn about frictional forces and their relationship with normal force
  • Investigate real-world applications of normal force in engineering contexts
USEFUL FOR

Students of physics, educators teaching mechanics, and anyone interested in understanding the principles of forces and motion.

ahmed emad
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HI,
Can the normal force be in vertical direction ?
 
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ahmed emad said:
HI,
Can the normal force be in vertical direction ?
What do you think and why?
 
I think it's not because gravity act in horizontal direction ,but I posted to confirm my understand
 
ahmed emad said:
I think it's not because gravity act in horizontal direction ,but I posted to confirm my understand
It sounds like you have horizontal and vertical mixed up...

https://gawallbeds.files.wordpress.com/2013/07/h-and-v.jpg
h-and-v.jpg
 
ahmed emad said:
I think it's not because gravity act in horizontal direction ,but I posted to confirm my understand
Normal force does not necessarily have anything to do with gravity. Do you understand what normal force IS ?
 

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