Learning Path
Question & Answer1
Understand Question2
Review Options3
Learn Explanation4
Explore TopicChoose the Best Answer
A
The angle of inclination
B
The mass of the object
C
The surface texture
D
The gravitational force acting on it
Understanding the Answer
Let's break down why this is correct
Answer
The frictional force on an object on an incline is mainly set by the normal force pressing the object against the surface, because friction is calculated as the coefficient of friction times that normal force. The normal force depends on the component of the object's weight that is perpendicular to the plane, which changes with the incline angle. So the steeper the incline, the smaller the perpendicular component, and thus the friction decreases. For example, a box on a 30‑degree slope experiences less friction than the same box on a flat surface because the normal force is reduced. This shows that the normal force is the key factor determining friction.
Detailed Explanation
Friction depends on how the two surfaces touch. Other options are incorrect because Some think the steepness of the slope makes friction bigger; People often say heavier objects mean more friction because they push harder.
Key Concepts
Frictional Forces
Inclined Planes
Normal Force
Topic
Friction Forces Analysis
Difficulty
easy level question
Cognitive Level
understand
Practice Similar Questions
Test your understanding with related questions
1
Question 1Which of the following statements best describes how increasing the normal force affects the frictional force between two surfaces in contact?
easyPhysics
Practice
2
Question 2How does increasing the angle of an incline affect the frictional force acting on an object resting on it?
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Practice
3
Question 3If the temperature of a surface increases significantly, how would this most likely affect the normal force and the frictional force acting on an object resting on that surface?
mediumPhysics
Practice
4
Question 4When an object is sliding down an inclined plane, the force that opposes its motion due to the interaction of the surfaces is known as ___.
hardPhysics
Practice
5
Question 5If a block is sliding down an inclined plane, how does the frictional force behave compared to the gravitational force acting parallel to the incline?
mediumPhysics
Practice
6
Question 6Which of the following statements about friction forces in a sliding object on an inclined plane are true? Select all that apply.
hardPhysics
Practice
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