Friction question, maximum incline

Then you should be able to find the maximum value of alpha for which the equation is true.In summary, the problem involves an object of mass 50kg on a rough plane incline at an angle alpha to the horizontal, supported by a light string with a breaking strain of 200N and a coefficient of friction of 0.2. To find the largest value of alpha for the string to remain intact, the equation 50g sin(alpha) - 10g cos(alpha) = 200 must be solved, which can be rewritten in terms of trig functions and a phase. The maximum value of alpha can be found from this equation.
  • #1
Kinhew93
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Homework Statement



An object of mass 50kg rests on a rough plane incline at an angle alpha to the horizontal. It is supported in this position by a light string parallel to the plane. The string has a breaking strain of 200N and the coefficient of friction between the object and the plane is 0.2. Find the largest value of alpha for the string to remain intact.

The Attempt at a Solution



Resolving parallel to the plane:

50gsin(alp) = 200 + (0.2x50gcos(alp))
= 200 + 10gcos(alp)

So it seems that I have to find the maximum value of alpha for which the above equation is true, but I have no idea how to do that.

Any help would be much appreciated. Thanks :)
 
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  • #2
why not take sin(α)=x and cos(α)=√(1-x2)
 
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  • #3
You can rewrite as $$50g \sin \alpha - 10 g \cos \alpha = 200$$ and express the LHS as one trig function and a corresponding phase.
 

1. What is the definition of friction?

Friction is the force that resists the motion of one surface moving against another.

2. How does friction affect an object on an incline?

Friction acts in the opposite direction of motion, so it will slow down or stop an object from sliding down an incline.

3. What factors affect the maximum incline a object can climb?

The maximum incline an object can climb is affected by the mass of the object, the coefficient of friction between the object and the surface, and the force of gravity acting on the object.

4. What is the formula for calculating the maximum incline an object can climb?

The formula for calculating the maximum incline is: sin(θ) = μ, where θ is the angle of the incline and μ is the coefficient of friction.

5. How can friction be reduced on an incline?

Friction can be reduced on an incline by using materials with lower coefficients of friction, such as lubricants, or by decreasing the weight of the object being pulled up the incline.

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