How Do You Calculate Forces on a Sled on a Slope?

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on calculating the forces acting on a sled weighing 100 N on a frictionless slope inclined at 20 degrees. The correct approach involves breaking down the weight into its x and y components using trigonometric functions. The normal force (n) acting on the sled is determined to be +34 N, calculated from the y-component of the weight (Wy = 100*cos(20)). The tension in the rope is not explicitly calculated, but the net force in the x-direction is established as T - Wx = 0.

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  • Understanding of Newton's laws of motion (F=ma, F=0)
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  • Ability to create and interpret free body diagrams (FBD)
  • Familiarity with vector decomposition of forces
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This discussion is beneficial for physics students, educators, and anyone interested in understanding force calculations on inclined planes, particularly in the context of mechanics and dynamics.

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Homework Statement


A sled weighing 100 N is held in place on a frictionless 20 degree slope by a rope attached to a stake at the top. The rope is parallel to the slope. Use the FBD diagram of the sled below to answer the following. What is the correct formula in both the x and y direction? (referring to F=ma and F=0, Newton's 1st and 2nd laws). What is the normal force of the slope acting on the sled? (HINT: the force of weight is at an angle to your tilted coordinate system and needs to be broken down into its x and y components.)

I have attached the given FBD to this post



Homework Equations


Fy=0
Fx=0?


The Attempt at a Solution


In the y direction:
Fy=0 so
n - Wy = 0
In order to find Wy, I formed a right triangle with the 20 degree angle and used calculated that -100sin20 = approx. -34 N
That makes n = +34 N, right?
In the x direction:
I'm not sure about this but I assume that the net force is equal to zero.
That would mean: T-Wx = 0 right?
In the problem, it does not state to find what tension equals so I think all I had to do was write the correct formula in the x direction. Does this look good to you guys? Thanks.
 

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It is correct except to find wy it would be 100*cos(20) since the angle is measured relative to the vertical. Likewise wx would be caculated using the sine function.
 

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