Learning Path
Question & Answer1
Understand Question2
Review Options3
Learn Explanation4
Explore TopicChoose the Best Answer
A
The normal force decreases as the angle increases.
B
The normal force remains constant regardless of the angle.
C
The normal force increases with the angle.
D
The normal force first increases then decreases with the angle.
Understanding the Answer
Let's break down why this is correct
Answer
The normal force is the component of the object's weight that is perpendicular to the ramp. As the ramp’s angle increases, the weight vector tilts farther away from the surface normal, so the perpendicular component gets smaller. This means the normal force decreases as the cosine of the incline angle decreases. For example, a 10‑kg block on a 30° incline experiences a normal force of about 86 N, while on a 60° incline it drops to roughly 43 N. Thus, a steeper ramp always reduces the normal force proportionally to the cosine of the angle.
Detailed Explanation
The weight of the object pushes downwards. Other options are incorrect because Some think the tilt does not change the perpendicular push; It might seem that the steeper the ramp, the more force the surface feels, but actually the opposite happens.
Key Concepts
Angle of Incline
Topic
Friction Coefficient Calculations
Difficulty
easy level question
Cognitive Level
understand
Practice Similar Questions
Test your understanding with related questions
1
Question 1How does increasing the angle of an incline affect the frictional force acting on an object resting on it?
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2
Question 2When an object slides down a ramp made of rubber at a steep angle, how does the combination of the angle of incline and the material affect the frictional force experienced by the object?
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3
Question 3How does increasing the surface roughness of two sliding objects affect their friction coefficient on an incline?
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