Forces on an Incline
Part of the Mechanics section of Coddy's Physics journey. Lesson 17 of 94.
On a ramp an object feels three forces: its weight mg straight down, the normal force N perpendicular to the ramp, and friction f along the surface, against the sliding.
Three forces on a box resting on a ramp: mg straight down, N perpendicular to the surface, f along it.
Choose the x axis along the slope and the y axis perpendicular to it. Only the weight is slanted, and nothing moves into the slope:
ΣF along = ma, ΣF perpendicular = 0
Challenge
A 4 kg box slides down a 30° ramp, and kinetic friction holds it back with 5 N. Find the acceleration a of the box.
Try it yourself
Test yourselfThis lesson includes a short quiz. Start the lesson to answer it and track your progress.
All lessons in Mechanics
1Vectors and Newton's Laws
Right TrianglesWhat is a Vector?Adding VectorsAxes and DirectionsVector ComponentsForces Around UsFriction and TensionNewton's First LawNewton's Second LawNewton's Third LawRecap - Net Force2Friction
What is Friction?Static FrictionKinetic FrictionFriction and Newton's LawsRecap - Sliding Crate3Inclined Planes
Forces on an InclineGravity ComponentsFrictionless InclineIncline with FrictionWill It Slide?Recap - Ramp Challenge6Projectile Motion
Independent AxesHorizontal LaunchLaunch at an AngleRange and Max HeightRecap - Hit the Target9Work and Energy
WorkKinetic EnergyWork-Energy TheoremGravitational PEConservation of EnergyPowerRecap - Roller Coaster12Impulse and Momentum
MomentumImpulseConservation of MomentumElastic CollisionsInelastic CollisionsRecap - Air Track15Simple Harmonic Motion
What is SHM?Mass on a SpringThe PendulumSHM GraphsEnergy in SHMRecap - Oscillator