Inclined plane (ranking normal force)

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on ranking the normal force acting on a block placed on a 30-degree inclined plane when subjected to four different force directions: +x, -x, +y, and -y. The key to solving this problem lies in resolving the applied forces into components that act perpendicular and parallel to the inclined plane. The correct ranking of the normal forces, from greatest to least, is determined by analyzing how each force affects the weight component acting perpendicular to the plane.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of inclined plane physics
  • Knowledge of vector resolution techniques
  • Familiarity with normal force concepts
  • Basic trigonometry for angle calculations
NEXT STEPS
  • Study vector resolution methods in physics
  • Learn about normal force calculations on inclined planes
  • Explore the effects of different force directions on motion
  • Review examples of forces acting on inclined surfaces
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Students studying physics, particularly those focusing on mechanics and forces, as well as educators seeking to enhance their understanding of inclined plane problems.

jtulloss
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I'm having problems with my initial approach on this problem:

The figure below shows four choices for the direction of a force of magnitude F to be applied to a block on an inclined plane. The directions are either horizontal or vertical. (For choices a and b, the force is not enough to lift the block off the plane.) Rank the choices according to the magnitude of the normal force on the block from the plane, greatest first (use only the symbols > or =, for example c>b>a>d).

05_35.gif


In case the image doesn't work, this is an inclined plane of 30 degrees with a block shown on the plane. The different forces applied are to the block in the +x, -x, +y, and -y directions. I'm supposed to rank the normal force, but I don't even know where to start.
 
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Hint: Resolve the vectors in the perpendicular and parallel directions to the inclined plane.
 

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