Why is 1.2g the Hypotenuse on an Inclined Plane?

AI Thread Summary
In resolving forces on an inclined plane, the hypotenuse represents the total force acting on the object, which is often expressed as 1.2g. This value is derived from the gravitational force acting on the mass, where g is the acceleration due to gravity. The confusion arises from mixing the geometry of the inclined plane with vector resolution, where the hypotenuse is always the vector being resolved. Understanding that the hypotenuse corresponds to the resultant force helps clarify the concept. Properly visualizing the force components aids in accurately analyzing the forces at play.
Jamie Bristow
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Homework Statement


When resolving forces on an inclined plane, can anyone explain to me why 1.2g in my pic is used as the hypotenuse? It looks intuitively like it should be the opposite or adjacent.

Thanks for any help :)

IMG_20160228_141712072.jpg


Homework Equations

The Attempt at a Solution

 
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Whenever you resolve a vector into components that vector will be the hypotenuse. (Don't confuse the triangle of the inclined plane with the triangle you need when resolving a vector.)
 
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Read this: Inclined Planes
 
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Thank you
 

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