How to find deceleration up incline

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on calculating the initial acceleration of a block moving up an incline, given its initial velocity. Key to solving this problem is the use of a Free Body Diagram (FBD) to analyze the forces acting on the block. The relevant equation provided is a = g sin(theta) - u g cos(theta), which must be applied carefully, considering the different phases of motion. Participants emphasize the importance of separating the up and down phases in the analysis.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of Free Body Diagrams (FBD)
  • Knowledge of Newton's laws of motion
  • Familiarity with trigonometric functions in physics
  • Basic concepts of acceleration and forces
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the application of Free Body Diagrams in mechanics
  • Learn about the effects of incline angles on acceleration
  • Explore the derivation and application of kinematic equations
  • Investigate the relationship between forces and motion in different phases
USEFUL FOR

Students of physics, educators teaching mechanics, and anyone interested in understanding motion on inclined planes will benefit from this discussion.

xwalsh
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Homework Statement
Use Newton's Laws to find the speed of the block when it returns to its original location.
Relevant Equations
a = g sin theta - u g cos theta
Basically the problem is giving me an initial velocity to start with it goes up the incline before it comes back down. I know how to do everything else in the problem but solve for the initial acceleration up the incline. What would I need to calculate to solve this?
Screenshot 2021-12-15 211539.png
 
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Hi xwalsh, Welcome to Physics Forums.

Have you drawn a Free Body Diagram (FBD) for the block to show the forces acting? What does it tell you about the net force acting on the block?
 
xwalsh said:
Relevant Equations:: a = g sin theta - u g cos theta
That equation does not apply throughout the sequence. Rather than use it blindly, follow @gneill's advice to draw FBDs, but consider the up and down phases separately..
 

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