General question about accleration of box on inclined plane

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SUMMARY

A box on a frictionless incline can experience positive acceleration depending on the chosen coordinate system. Acceleration is a vector quantity, and its sign is determined by the orientation of the coordinate axes. For instance, if the Z-axis is defined to point downward, then the acceleration due to gravity "g" is considered positive. Consistency in the coordinate system is crucial for accurate interpretation of acceleration values.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of vector quantities in physics
  • Familiarity with coordinate systems and their implications
  • Basic knowledge of gravitational acceleration "g"
  • Concept of frictionless surfaces in mechanics
NEXT STEPS
  • Study vector addition and subtraction in physics
  • Explore different coordinate systems and their applications in mechanics
  • Learn about the effects of friction on acceleration in inclined planes
  • Investigate the principles of free fall and gravitational forces
USEFUL FOR

Students studying physics, particularly those focusing on mechanics and kinematics, as well as educators seeking to clarify concepts related to acceleration and coordinate systems.

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Homework Statement


Is it possible for a box going down on a frictionless incline plane to have not a negative acceleration but positive acceleration? Please help, it is confusing.


Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution

 
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hager said:

Homework Statement


Is it possible for a box going down on a frictionless incline plane to have not a negative acceleration but positive acceleration? Please help, it is confusing.


Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution


Acceleration is a vector quantity. So the sign of the vector depends on how you choose your coordinate system. If an object is free-falling at the surface of the Earth, then the acceleration due to gravity "g" is positive if the Z axis points down, and negative if it points up. As long as you keep your coordinate system consistent, you could choose either way.
 

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