Question regarding Newton's laws

In summary, the conversation discusses how to use Newton's law to solve a specific problem involving a force and a mass on an incline. The question is asking for the magnitude of the acceleration of the mass up the incline and it is important to use Newton's second law for this type of problem. The key is to set up a coordinate system with the x-axis parallel to the incline and break down the weight vector into components. This will allow for the use of the 2nd law equations for both the x and y axes. The conversation also mentions that the question was previously posted in a homework forum and should not be double posted.
  • #1
r3dxP
well, my question isn't directly towards Newton's law or anythiing, but its a question on how to solve problems using Newton's law.
for example, look at this problem below..

a force of 20N acts horizontally on a mass of 10kg being pushed up a fritionless incline that makes a 30degrees angle with the horizontal. What is the magnitude of the acceleration of the mass up the incline equal to?

ok, for this problem, how would you know you solve this problem by using the equilibrium in respect to the x ? is it because only x equilibrium exists? or is it because its asking for the magnitude of the acceleration up the incline?
sorry if this question confuses you..
 
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  • #2
You're going to need Newton's second law, not the first. The acceleration is what you are looking for. That's what the question states to find. Always start with what is given to and asked of you. I always put my coordinate system with the x-axis parallel to the incline. That way the only term that should need being broken down into components is the weight vector. It will have a component in both x and y directions. Write out your 2nd law equations for both axes.
 
  • #3
This was also posted in the homework forum. Please don't double post. If this is homework it shouldn't be here. (And if it's not homework, it shouldn't be there!)
 

FAQ: Question regarding Newton's laws

What are Newton's three laws of motion?

Newton's first law of motion states that an object at rest will remain at rest or an object in motion will continue in motion at a constant velocity unless acted upon by an external force. Newton's second law of motion states that the acceleration of an object is directly proportional to the net force acting on the object and inversely proportional to its mass. Newton's third law of motion states that for every action, there is an equal and opposite reaction.

How are Newton's laws used in everyday life?

Newton's laws are used in many aspects of everyday life, such as driving a car, riding a bike, or playing sports. They also apply to objects in motion, such as a ball rolling down a hill or a book falling off a table. Understanding these laws can help us predict and explain the motion of objects around us.

What is the difference between mass and weight in relation to Newton's laws?

Mass is a measure of the amount of matter in an object, while weight is a measure of the force of gravity on an object. In Newton's second law, mass is directly proportional to acceleration, meaning that the more mass an object has, the more force is needed to accelerate it. Weight, on the other hand, is not directly related to an object's motion, but it does play a role in determining an object's weight on different planets or in different gravitational fields.

Do Newton's laws apply to all objects in the universe?

Yes, Newton's laws of motion apply to all objects in the universe, regardless of their size, shape, or location. These laws are fundamental principles that govern the behavior of all objects in motion, from the smallest particle to the largest celestial body.

How did Newton develop his laws of motion?

Isaac Newton developed his laws of motion through a combination of observations, experiments, and mathematical calculations. He used his laws to explain the motion of the planets around the sun and to develop the mathematical principles of calculus. His laws have been tested and verified countless times and are still used today to understand the behavior of objects in motion.

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