Scale Reading of Normal Force: Due by Midnight

In summary, a scale records the normal force and not a person's actual weight. To solve for the reading on the scale, a free body diagram must be drawn and the coordinate system must be rotated. The weight force should be broken up into components parallel and perpendicular to the incline, and the sum of forces perpendicular to the incline must equal zero.
  • #1
IBdoomed
16
0
Remember that a scale records the value of
the normal force, not a person’s actual weight.
Draw a FBD. Rotate your coordinate system.

A 61 kg student weighs himself by standing
on a scale mounted on a skateboard that is
rolling down an incline, as shown. Assume
there is no friction so that the force exerted
by the incline on the skateboard is normal to
the incline.
The acceleration of gravity is 9.81 m/s

What is the reading on the scale if the angle
of the slope is 29◦?
Answer in units of N

I have my free body diagram with Fn going up and to the left and Fg gong straight down. I do not understand how to rotate the FBD or what that would accomplish...
ANY HELP WOULD BE MUCH APPRECIATED!
 
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  • #2
Your FBD is correct. Now break up the weight force into components parallel and perpendicular to the plane, and cross out the initial weight vector. The sum of forces perpendicular to the incline must equal zero, since the skateboarder does not lift off the incline in that direction.
 
  • #3
much thanks! mission accomplished
 

1. What is the purpose of scale reading in determining normal force?

The purpose of scale reading is to measure the force acting on an object perpendicularly to its surface, also known as the normal force. This is important in understanding the weight and stability of an object, as well as its interactions with other objects and surfaces.

2. How is scale reading used in experiments and research?

In experiments and research, scale reading is used to accurately measure the normal force on an object and record this data for analysis. It can also be used to compare the effects of different variables on the normal force, such as different masses or surface materials.

3. What units are typically used for scale reading of normal force?

The most common units for scale reading of normal force are newtons (N) or pounds (lbs). However, other units such as kilograms (kg) or grams (g) may also be used depending on the specific experiment or research being conducted.

4. What factors can affect the accuracy of scale reading for normal force?

There are several factors that can affect the accuracy of scale reading for normal force, including the precision of the scale, the placement and stability of the object being measured, and any external forces acting on the object. It is important to carefully control these factors in order to obtain reliable and accurate measurements.

5. Can scale reading be used to determine the direction of the normal force?

No, scale reading alone cannot determine the direction of the normal force. It only provides the magnitude of the force acting perpendicularly to the surface of an object. The direction of the normal force must be determined through other means, such as by analyzing the geometry and interactions of the object with its surroundings.

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