- #1
FaroukYasser
- 62
- 3
Homework Statement
The question is made of a smooth inclined ramp at an angle of 30 degrees. There is a particle on the ramp with mass m. The question asks to find R (The reaction force on the ball) in terms of mg
Homework Equations
Resolving the forces with the ramp and equating upward and downward forces to find the reaction.
The Attempt at a Solution
I know the question is really basic. Most people resolve the weight force so that one is opposite the Reaction and on is down the ramp or in other words:
R = mgcos(30) and mgsin(30) down the ramp.
My question is why don't we resolve the Reaction force so that we have our system in an x-y coordinate like for example:
Rcos(30) = mg and Rsin(30) to the side, and since Rcos(30) = mg then R = mgsec(30)
I know what I wrote is wrong but I just don't understand why. why do we have to resolve the forces along the ramp?
Thanks :)