Inclined plane
Inclined plane is an interactive experiment in Mechanics & Motion, a free simulation from StudyFi Lab that runs right in your browser.
The weight G = m·g splits into a component along the slope G·sin θ and a perpendicular component G·cos θ, which the normal force N balances. As long as tan θ ≤ μs (static coefficient), static friction holds the block. Once it moves, kinetic friction μk·N acts and the block accelerates at a = g·(sin θ − μk·cos θ), independent of its mass.
Try this: Raise the angle until the block starts to slide — it happens exactly at the friction angle φ = arctan μs. Then change the mass: the acceleration stays the same.
Frequently asked questions
What does the “Inclined plane” experiment show?
The weight G = m·g splits into a component along the slope G·sin θ and a perpendicular component G·cos θ, which the normal force N balances. As long as tan θ ≤ μs (static coefficient), static friction holds the block. Once it moves, kinetic friction μk·N acts and the block accelerates at a = g·(sin θ − μk·cos θ), independent of its mass.
How do I try “Inclined plane”?
Raise the angle until the block starts to slide — it happens exactly at the friction angle φ = arctan μs. Then change the mass: the acceleration stays the same.
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