Gravitational force on inclined plane

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Homework Help Overview

The problem involves calculating the component of gravitational force acting on a box placed on an inclined plane at a specific angle. The subject area includes concepts of forces, inclined planes, and gravitational components.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the need for a free body diagram (FBD) to visualize the forces acting on the box. There is confusion regarding the terminology used in the problem, particularly about the normal force and its relationship to weight. Some participants question the units of measurement for mass and weight.

Discussion Status

The discussion is ongoing, with participants exploring different interpretations of the problem and attempting to clarify the concepts involved. Some guidance has been offered regarding the use of diagrams and the definitions of forces, but no consensus has been reached on the correct approach or solution.

Contextual Notes

There appears to be confusion regarding the distinction between weight and mass, as well as the correct application of formulas related to forces on an inclined plane.

Joe91090
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Homework Statement



You place a box weighing 265.5N on an inclined plane that makes a 43.2 degree angle with the horizontal. Compute the component of the gravitaltional force acting down on the inclined plane.

Homework Equations



m x g x cos(degree)

The Attempt at a Solution



265.5 x 9.8 x cos(43.2)

The answer came out incorrect. I think I calculating the wrong force the question confuses me.
 
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Try drawing the picture. You need to think the geometry through rather than just trying to plug numbers into formulas.
 


still very confused do you mean a free body diagram ?
 


An FBD should do the job. Perhaps you are confused by the wording. The words, "component ... acting down on the inclined plane" refers to the force normal (perpendicular) to the plane.
 


So wouldn't the Normal force be the same as the mass because the inclined plane is holding it up ?
 


Which direction is the weight?
 


straight down ?
 


since when is mass measured in Newtons?
 


thats what I am saying wouldn't the Normal force be W=mg ?
 
  • #10


ok so.. 265.5 = m 9.8

m = 27.1N

27.1 x 9.8 x cos(43.2) = 193.6 N = Fn ?
 
  • #11


m = 27.1N
Newton's aren't a unit of mass

Otherwise, it looks ok to me.
 
  • #12


193.6N isn't the correct answer I am still stumped
 

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