Solve Physics Ramp Problem: Acceleration of Box

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The discussion centers on solving a physics problem involving a box being pulled up a 10-degree incline with a force of 180 N at a 30-degree angle. The student initially calculated the normal force and frictional force but neglected to include the gravitational component acting down the incline, represented by mgsin(theta). This omission led to an incorrect acceleration calculation of 2.59 m/s^2. To correct the solution, the gravitational force component must be added to the net force equation. Including mgsin(theta) will yield the correct acceleration of the box.
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Homework Statement


A student pulls on a box up an incline of 10 degrees. The student pulls with a force of 180 N directed at 30 degrees above the line of the incline. The box has a mass of 28 kg, and the coefficient of friction between the box and floor is 0.299. The acceleration of gravity is 9.8 m/s^2.

What is the acceleration of the box?

Homework Equations


Fnet = ma

The Attempt at a Solution


From Fnet = ma I get:
Fp - Ffr = ma, where Fp is the force of the person pulling and Ffr is the force of friction resisting.

Ffr = MkFn
Ffr = (.299)(Fn)

I then solved for Fn:
Fn = mg/cos10
Fn = (28)(9.8) / cos10
Fn = 278.63

So Ffr = (.299)(278.63)
Ffr = 83.31 N

So we have Fp - Ffr = ma,
so Fp - 83.31 = (28)a

We need Fp.
Fp = cos30 * 180
Fp = 155.88

So Fp - 83.31 = (28)a,
so 155.88 - 83.31 = (28)a

Solving for a i get a = 2.59 m/s^2

I submitted this to my online homework system and it said the answer was wrong. Where did I go wrong?

Homework Statement


Homework Equations


The Attempt at a Solution

 
Last edited:
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...you forgot mgsin(theta) in your original "Fnet" equation. Include mgsin(theta) and you should get the acceleration. --------> ma = T - F - mgsin(theta)
 
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