How Do You Calculate the Components of Weight on an Inclined Plane?

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on calculating the components of weight for a 51.5 lb object on an inclined plane at a 33-degree angle. The two components to determine are the weight parallel to the incline, which causes sliding, and the weight perpendicular to the incline, which presses against the surface. Trigonometric functions are essential for these calculations, specifically sine and cosine, to resolve the weight into its components. Drawing a diagram is recommended to visualize the problem effectively.

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  • Understanding of basic trigonometry, specifically sine and cosine functions.
  • Familiarity with the concept of weight and gravitational force.
  • Ability to interpret and draw diagrams of inclined planes.
  • Knowledge of vector resolution in physics.
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URGENT--Weight on an Incline--please help

A 51.5 lb object is sitting on an inclined plane that makes a 33 degree angle with the horizontal. What is the component of weight that tends to make the object slide down the incline?
And, what is the component of weight that presses against the incline?

i don't know how to go about solving the problem, i don't know how to draw the diagram or what its asking me.
Please help
 
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Well, you've got a slope at an angle of 33 degrees, with an object resting on it. Can you not draw this?

Then, the object has a weight, which acts vertically downwards, and you are asked to calculate the components of the weight parallel and perpendicular to the slope. You can do this by trigonometry. Draw the diagram and this should become clearer.
 

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