Static friction on an inclined plane.

Click For Summary

Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around a problem involving static friction on an inclined plane, focusing on the forces acting on a block. Participants are examining the relationship between gravitational forces and frictional forces in this context.

Discussion Character

  • Conceptual clarification, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants are exploring the components of gravitational force acting on the block, questioning the distinction between the frictional force and the normal force. There is confusion regarding the correct expression for the frictional force, with some suggesting it should be related to the sine component of the weight along the incline.

Discussion Status

The discussion is active, with participants seeking clarification on the forces involved. Some have provided insights into the direction of the frictional force and its relationship to the motion of the block. Multiple interpretations of the problem are being explored, particularly concerning the components of weight acting on the inclined plane.

Contextual Notes

Participants are referencing images to aid in understanding the problem setup, indicating that visual aids are being used to clarify the scenario. There may be assumptions about the direction of forces that are under examination.

megatron99
Messages
5
Reaction score
0

Homework Statement



http://img124.imageshack.us/img124/9997/problem3.jpg



Homework Equations



f=mgcos theta


The Attempt at a Solution


I am thinking the answer is f = mgcos theta because gravity only acts on y-component but the answer is f=mgsin theta . Can anyone explain?
 
Last edited by a moderator:
Physics news on Phys.org
In the problem, f is the frictional force ,not the normal reaction.
Frictional force acts in the opposite direction of the motion of the block.The block moves down due to the component of weight along the inclined plane. What is that component?
 
rl.bhat said:
In the problem, f is the frictional force ,not the normal reaction.
Frictional force acts in the opposite direction of the motion of the block.The block moves down due to the component of weight along the inclined plane. What is that component?

x-component of weight?
 

Similar threads

  • · Replies 7 ·
Replies
7
Views
2K
  • · Replies 11 ·
Replies
11
Views
5K
Replies
43
Views
3K
Replies
11
Views
1K
  • · Replies 11 ·
Replies
11
Views
5K
Replies
24
Views
3K
  • · Replies 11 ·
Replies
11
Views
4K
  • · Replies 21 ·
Replies
21
Views
2K
Replies
2
Views
830