Mechanics M1 question. Motion of a block on a slope

AI Thread Summary
A block of mass 12kg is sliding down a 5-degree slope with an initial speed of 1.5 m/s and experiences a constant resistance of 15N. The key challenge is calculating the resultant force acting on the block, which involves resolving the gravitational force into components. The correct approach to find the force down the slope is to use 12g sin(5) rather than 12g tan(5). Once the resultant force is determined, the acceleration can be calculated using F=ma. Understanding how to resolve forces into components is crucial for solving similar mechanics problems.
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Homework Statement


A block of mass 12kg slides down a slope at 5deg to the horizontal. The speed of the block at the top of the slop is 1.5ms^-1
There is a constant resistance to motion of 15N

iii) Calculate the acceleration of the block in the direction of its motion
iv) For how much time does the block slide down the slope before coming to rest and how far does it slide in that time?


Homework Equations


F=ma


The Attempt at a Solution


F=ma
F = 12a

I cannot work out what the resultant force is. I'm having problems resolving the gravitational force into force down the slope - My first line of thinking was to draw in the normal reaction and resolve that such that the overall force = 12gtan5 - 15
however the solution book says the answer is 12gsin5 - I cannot work out how this is done
 
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You need to know how to resolve forces into components. Read this: http://www.physicsclassroom.com/Class/vectors/u3l3e.cfm"
 
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Many thanks, It's hit me now.
 
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