How Do You Calculate the Total Force on a Block on an Inclined Plane?

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on calculating the total force acting on a block of mass 7.50 kg moving up a 25-degree inclined plane with an acceleration of 4.35 m/s². The applied force is horizontal, and the coefficients of static and kinetic friction are 0.443 and 0.312, respectively. The initial calculation of 35.99 N for the horizontal component of force is incorrect; a comprehensive analysis of both vertical and horizontal forces is necessary to arrive at the correct total force, which should fall between 80 N and 120 N.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of Newton's Second Law of Motion
  • Knowledge of force components in inclined planes
  • Familiarity with friction coefficients (static and kinetic)
  • Ability to perform trigonometric calculations (e.g., cosine function)
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the application of Newton's Second Law in inclined plane problems
  • Learn how to resolve forces into components on an incline
  • Explore the effects of friction on motion in inclined scenarios
  • Practice solving problems involving multiple forces acting on an object
USEFUL FOR

This discussion is beneficial for physics students, educators, and anyone interested in mastering the principles of mechanics, particularly in analyzing forces on inclined planes.

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Newton's second law problem; Please Help!

Block M = 7.50 kg is initially moving up the incline and is increasing speed with
a = 4.35 m/s2. The applied force F is horizontal. The coefficients of friction
between the block and incline are fs = 0:443 and fk = 0:312. The angle of the incline is
25.0 degrees.
(a) What is the force F?

So basically, I started by tilting the axes. Then, I did F=ma. I plugged 7.5 kg into m and 4.35 into a. I got 32.6 N. Then, I took 32.6/cos(25) to get the horizontal component of force. My answer was 35.99 N. It says that my answer should be around 80 N to 120 N. What did I do wrong? Please Help.
 
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To apply Newton's 2nd law you must consider all the forces. What other forces act parallel to the incline?

Hint: You'll need to analyze both vertical and horizontal force components.
 

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