Normal Force on Inclined Planes

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About This MicroSim

This simulation shows how the normal force on an inclined plane relates to the incline angle. As the angle increases, the normal force decreases according to N = mg cos(θ).

Key Concepts

• Normal force (N): Perpendicular to surface, N = mg cos(θ)
• Parallel component (W∥): Along the slope, W∥ = mg sin(θ)
• At θ = 0° (flat): N = mg (full weight supported)
• At θ = 90° (vertical): N = 0 (no surface contact)

Why This Matters

The normal force is crucial because: 1. It determines friction (f = μN) 2. It varies with angle, explaining why steeper slopes are harder to climb 3. Objects on steep slopes have less friction and slide more easily