Newton's second and third law problem

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To solve the problem of a 2 kg box on a 60-degree incline with a horizontal force, the key equations derived from Newton's laws are netfx = M1a and netfy = m1a. The horizontal force (Fa) must counteract the component of gravitational force acting down the incline, represented as 19.6sin60. The normal force (Fn) is calculated as 19.6cos60, but it is crucial to recognize that mg is a component of the normal force, not the other way around. The discussion emphasizes the importance of accurately drawing a block diagram to visualize the forces acting on the box. Understanding these relationships is essential for correctly applying Newton's second and third laws in this scenario.
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Homework Statement


A horizontal force(with respect to the ground) is exerted on a 2 kg box on an incline. theta is 60 degrees above the horizontal. what force Fa is needed to keep the box stationary on the incline? what force does the incline exert on the box?

Homework Equations


F=ma

The Attempt at a Solution


netfx=M1a
Fax-19.6sin60=0
Fax=19.6sin60

netfy=m1a
Fn-Fay+19.6cos60=0
Fn= -19.6cos60+Fay

Im not sure even if I started it correctly, need help!

Homework Statement


Homework Equations


The Attempt at a Solution

 
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APysics said:
netfx=M1a
Okay, that's right. That's Newton's second law. :approve:
Fax-19.6sin60=0
Fax=19.6sin60
But that's not right. :frown:

Your first step is to draw a block diagram. If you haven't done so already, do so now.

You should notice (after drawing your block diagram) that there are only two force components in the x-direction. There is the Fa, which is completely in the x-direction because the problem statement says it is a horizontal force; and there is the x-component of the normal force.
netfy=m1a
Fn-Fay+19.6cos60=0
Fn= -19.6cos60+Fay
There isn't an Fay term (or more accurately, I should say Fay = 0). The problem statement says, "A horizontal force(with respect to the ground)..."

Also, take another look at your block diagram. Is the y-component of the normal force equal to mg, or is the y-component of mg equal to the normal force?
 
okay so after that i get:
netfx=m1a
Fa-19.6sin60=m1a

netfy=m1a
fn-19.6cos60=0
Fn=19.6cos60

and I am stuck again, is this right so far?
 
APysics said:
okay so after that i get:
netfx=m1a
Fa-19.6sin60=m1a
Sorry, still not quite right. The magnitude of the Normal force is not 19.6 N.
netfy=m1a
fn-19.6cos60=0
Fn=19.6cos60
According to the above equation, you are expressing the normal force as a component of mg. But that's not right. Look at your block diagram again. mg is equal to a component of the normal force. Not the other way around.
 
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