Normal Force Formula:
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Definition: The normal force is the perpendicular force exerted by a surface on an object resting on it at an angle.
Purpose: This calculator helps determine the normal force component when an object is on an inclined plane.
The calculator uses the formula:
Where:
Explanation: The normal force decreases as the angle increases, reaching zero when the surface is vertical (90°).
Details: Understanding normal force is crucial for analyzing friction, structural stability, and mechanical advantage in inclined plane problems.
Tips: Enter the mass in kg, gravity (default 9.81 m/s²), and angle (0-90°). All values must be positive.
Q1: What happens to normal force as angle increases?
A: The normal force decreases as the angle increases, following a cosine relationship.
Q2: What's the normal force at 0 degrees?
A: At 0° (flat surface), normal force equals the object's weight (m × g).
Q3: Why does normal force matter?
A: It determines friction (frictional force = μN) and affects stability calculations.
Q4: Can normal force be greater than weight?
A: On flat surfaces, no. But with additional forces (like pushing down), apparent normal force can increase.
Q5: How does this relate to construction?
A: Understanding normal forces helps in designing ramps, analyzing roof loads, and calculating structural stresses.