Normal force when on a horizontal surface

Thread starter wesDOT
Start date Dec 25, 2008
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Force Horizontal Normal Normal force Surface

AI Thread Summary

The normal force on a horizontal surface is not always equal to mg + Fy, as it depends on the specific context of the forces acting on the object. If the object is on Earth, the normal force typically equals the gravitational force (mg) when no additional vertical forces (Fy) are applied. Clarification of the scenario is necessary to provide a definitive answer. The discussion emphasizes the importance of context in understanding the normal force. Thus, the relationship between normal force and other forces varies based on the situation.

Dec 25, 2008

wesDOT

Could it always be referred to as mg+Fy

Last edited: Dec 25, 2008

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Dec 25, 2008

berkeman

Admin

wesDOT said:

Could it always be referred to as mg+Fy

Thread moved to HH/Intro Physics.

Your question is general and vague. Could you please clarify and list the context of your question?

For example, if the plane is on the surface of the Earth, and the vertical dimension is labeled "Z", then the answer would be No, correct?

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