What is the acceleration and time for a block on an inclined plane?

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on calculating the acceleration and time for a block sliding down an inclined plane, specifically using the principles outlined in the "5 Steps to a 5: AP Physics B&C" textbook. The block experiences forces due to gravity and friction, leading to an acceleration of 1.5 m/s² down the plane after resolving the forces. The participant attempted to apply kinematic equations to find the time taken for the block to slide down but encountered discrepancies in their calculations, indicating a misunderstanding of the initial conditions and distance involved.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of Newton's Second Law (F=ma)
  • Knowledge of gravitational force and frictional force calculations
  • Familiarity with kinematic equations for motion
  • Basic concepts of inclined planes in physics
NEXT STEPS
  • Review the derivation of forces on inclined planes using F=ma
  • Practice solving problems involving friction on inclined planes
  • Study kinematic equations in-depth, particularly for variable acceleration
  • Explore the effects of different angles of inclination on acceleration
USEFUL FOR

Students preparing for AP Physics exams, educators teaching mechanics, and anyone interested in understanding the dynamics of objects on inclined planes.

rumblef1sh
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I am stuck on a problem from the 5 Steps to a 5: AP Physics B&C book and would really appreciate anyone's help.

Homework Statement


Determine (a) the acceleration of the block down the plane and (b) the time for the block to slide to the bottom of the plane.

http://02.edu-cdn.com/files/static/mcgrawhillprof/9780071623209/INCLINED_PLANES_08.GIF

Homework Equations


F=ma
F, gravity = mg
F, friction = umg
Kinematic equation ?

The Attempt at a Solution



Fx, up the plane = mgsin25 + umgcos25 = 204 N
a = F/m = 204/30 = 6.8 m/s^2
Fx, down the plane = mgsin25 - umgcos25 = 44 N
a = F/m = 44/30 = 1.5 m/s^2

I tried using x = volt + 1/2 at^2 (x = 20 m, Vo = 3m/s) and v = Vo + at (v = 0, Vo = 3 m/s) to solve for time, but my answers were way off on both attempts.
 
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If the question says the mass is going 3 m/s up the plane, and the a) part asks for the acceleration DOWN the plane this means that x != 20, but it is going to be 20 added to the distance traveled by the mass until it changes direction. I hope that helped.
 

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