Why is this force the mgCos while the other is mgSin?

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The discussion focuses on understanding the forces acting on a block on a 60-degree inclined ramp. It clarifies that mgsin(theta) represents the component of gravitational force pulling the block down the ramp, while mgcos(theta) represents the normal force acting perpendicular to the ramp's surface. The use of trigonometric functions is emphasized to analyze the right triangle formed by the forces. Additionally, it prompts consideration of how the normal force changes as the angle approaches zero, which influences the choice between sine and cosine functions. Understanding these concepts is crucial for solving the problem of the block's acceleration down the ramp.
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Homework Statement


A block is placed on a ramp that is inclined to 60 degrees to the horizon. If the block weighs 10kg and the coefficient of kinetic friction is 0.3, how fast does the block accerlate down the ramp?

Homework Equations


Theta=60 degrees
m=10kg
g=10m/s^2
mu=0.3

The Attempt at a Solution


So far, all I have is the diagram that he gave us in class. I can somewhat tell why we're using the trig functions, but what I'm curious about is why mgsin(theta) is the block sliding down the ramp and mgcos(theta) is the reactionary force of gravity. Why not the other way around?

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Draw the vertical lines from the down edge of mg to the opposite sides of plane and see which angle is ##\theta## in the right triangle that is formed. In this triangle, find each vertical side using trigonometry.
 
upload_2017-2-8_16-36-36.png
This is where theta is to be placed. If you understand why, try to figure it out from there.
 
You can also ask yourself what happens to the normal force as theta approaches zero? Would Sin or Cos do that?
 
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