Formula for mass up an inclined plane

In summary, the conversation is about deriving a formula for the work needed to push a mass up an inclined plane. The formula is W=(umgcosfeta+mgsinfeta)(d) and the independent variable is 'd'. The conversation also discusses the possibility of using the change in gravitational potential energy and the height to find the value of 'd'. Ultimately, the formula for work can be expressed as a function of the angle and 'd'.
  • #1
simmer_27
5
0
I was just wondering if anyone could help me out with this homework. You have to derive a formula to figure out the work needed to push a mass up an inclined plane. All you know is the gravitational potential energy, the coeffieciant of friction, and the angle. Your supposed to start out with W=Fd.
All I have so far is W=(umgcosfeta+mgsinfeta)(d). I'm not sure how to get "d", if anyone could help me out I'd really appreciate it. I'm guessing you have to make the masses cancel out somehow too.
 
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  • #2
Just divide both sides by umgcosfeta+mgsinfeta

So W/umgcosfeta+mgsinfeta= d
 
  • #3
stupid

well you don't know "d" so that formula won't work?
 
  • #4
'd' is the independent variable, and 'W' is the dependent variable.

You solved the problem, and you have a formula for 'W' as a function of 'd'.
 
  • #5
you don't know "d", you can't have W=something d. u can only have one variable at the end
 
  • #6
Leave W as a function of the angle and d...if u have the change in the gravitational potential energy, then u can work out the final height. So in the triangle d is the hypotenuse, h is the opposite side and hence d can be expressed as

d=h/sin(theta)
Substitute that into your work equation, however from what you wrote, the question only wants an expression for the work done, so it can be left in terms of d.
 
  • #7
could W=ucosfetaE+E work?
 

FAQ: Formula for mass up an inclined plane

What is the formula for calculating mass up an inclined plane?

The formula for calculating mass up an inclined plane is m = F*sin(theta)/g, where m is the mass, F is the force applied, theta is the angle of the incline, and g is the acceleration due to gravity.

How is the mass affected by the angle of the inclined plane?

The mass is directly proportional to the angle of the inclined plane. As the angle increases, the mass required to move the object up the incline also increases.

Can the formula be used for both stationary and moving objects?

Yes, the formula can be used for both stationary and moving objects. For stationary objects, the applied force is equal to the force of gravity. For moving objects, the applied force is greater than the force of gravity to overcome the incline.

Is friction taken into account in the formula?

No, the formula does not take into account friction. Friction will add an additional force that must be overcome in order to move the object up the incline.

Are there any other factors that may affect the mass required to move up an inclined plane?

Yes, there are other factors that may affect the mass required to move up an inclined plane, such as the coefficient of friction, the surface of the incline, and the shape and weight distribution of the object. These factors may alter the amount of force needed to overcome the incline and should be taken into consideration when using the formula.

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