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Inclined Plane Motion

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About This MicroSim

This simulation demonstrates the physics of objects on inclined planes, including the critical angle at which sliding begins and how friction affects acceleration.

Key Concepts

  • Critical angle: θc = arctan(μk) - angle at which block begins to slide
  • Weight parallel: W∥ = mg sin θ (pulls block down slope)
  • Normal force: N = mg cos θ (perpendicular to surface)
  • Friction: f = μkN = μk mg cos θ (opposes motion)
  • Acceleration: a = g(sin θ - μk cos θ) when sliding