Forces and Inclines Flashcards

Vocabulary flashcards covering core formulas, rules, and concepts for physics forces and inclined planes.

Weight Formula

$$F_g = mg$$

Friction Formula

$$F_f = \mu F_N$$

Newton's 2nd Law

$$F_{\text{net}} = ma$$

Force Down the Ramp

The component of gravitational force acting along an incline, calculated as $F_{gx} = mg \sin(\theta)$.

Normal Force on an Incline

The perpendicular contact force into the surface of a ramp, given by $F_N = mg \cos(\theta)$.

Direction of Friction

Acts opposite the motion or attempted motion.

Constant Velocity

A condition where acceleration is zero ($a = 0$), which means net force is also zero ($F_{\text{net}} = 0$).

Downward Angled Force

An applied force pushing downward at an angle, causing the normal force ($F_N$) to increase.

Upward Angled Force

An applied force pulling upward at an angle, causing the normal force ($F_N$) to decrease.

Horizontal Component ($F_x$)

The component of a force resolved along the horizontal when angled from the horizontal: $F_x = F \cos(\theta)$.

Vertical Component ($F_y$)

The component of a force resolved along the vertical when angled from the horizontal: $F_y = F \sin(\theta)$.

First Question for Incline Problems

The initial question to ask when solving an incline problem: "Which direction will it move?"

Connected Objects Acceleration

Found by treating both connected masses as one system.

Connected Objects Tension

Found by analyzing one mass individually after determining acceleration ($a$).

Sine ($\sin$) on an Incline

Represents the force component directed along the ramp.

Cosine ($\cos$) on an Incline

Represents the force component directed into the ramp.

Minimum Tension

A condition in a problem that usually indicates static friction is at its maximum.

Kinetic Friction

The type of friction that acts when a rope is cut and the object slides.

Static Friction

The type of friction that acts when an object is not moving yet.

Flashcard Length Rule

A guideline stating that if a card takes more than about $10\,\text{seconds}$ to read, it is probably too long.