Why is 1.2g the Hypotenuse on an Inclined Plane?

In summary, a particle on an inclined plane is a model used to study the motion of a point mass on a tilted surface, taking into account the effects of gravity and friction. Its motion is calculated using Newton's second law of motion, and is affected by factors such as the angle of the incline, mass, and coefficient of friction. The angle of the incline directly affects the particle's acceleration, velocity, and displacement. In real life, this concept is applied in various situations, including rollercoasters, cars on hills, and projectile trajectories, as well as in engineering and design.
  • #1
Jamie Bristow
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Homework Statement


When resolving forces on an inclined plane, can anyone explain to me why 1.2g in my pic is used as the hypotenuse? It looks intuitively like it should be the opposite or adjacent.

Thanks for any help :)

IMG_20160228_141712072.jpg


Homework Equations

The Attempt at a Solution

 
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  • #2
Whenever you resolve a vector into components that vector will be the hypotenuse. (Don't confuse the triangle of the inclined plane with the triangle you need when resolving a vector.)
 
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  • #3
Read this: Inclined Planes
 
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Thank you
 

FAQ: Why is 1.2g the Hypotenuse on an Inclined Plane?

What is a particle on an inclined plane?

A particle on an inclined plane is a theoretical model used in physics to study the motion of a point mass on a tilted surface. It is often used to demonstrate the effects of gravity and friction on an object's movement.

How is the motion of a particle on an inclined plane calculated?

The motion of a particle on an inclined plane is calculated using Newton's second law of motion, which states that the net force acting on an object is equal to its mass times its acceleration. This equation takes into account the forces of gravity and friction on the particle.

What factors affect the motion of a particle on an inclined plane?

The motion of a particle on an inclined plane is affected by several factors, including the angle of the incline, the mass of the particle, and the coefficient of friction between the particle and the surface. These factors determine the acceleration, velocity, and displacement of the particle.

How does the angle of the incline affect the motion of a particle?

The angle of the incline has a direct impact on the motion of a particle on an inclined plane. As the angle increases, the force of gravity acting on the particle also increases, causing the particle to accelerate faster down the incline. A steeper incline will result in a greater acceleration and a shorter time for the particle to reach the bottom.

How is the concept of a particle on an inclined plane applied in real life?

The concept of a particle on an inclined plane is applied in real life in various situations, such as calculating the motion of a rollercoaster on a track, understanding the movement of a car on a hill, or determining the trajectory of a projectile on a sloped surface. It is also used in engineering and design to optimize the movement of objects on inclined surfaces.

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