Normal Force Formula:
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Definition: This calculator determines the normal force exerted by a surface when an object is being pulled at an angle.
Purpose: It helps in understanding how the normal force changes when an additional force is applied at an angle to an object on a surface.
The calculator uses the formula:
Where:
Explanation: The normal force equals the object's weight minus the vertical component of the applied force.
Details: Understanding normal force is crucial for analyzing friction, structural stability, and mechanical systems where objects interact with surfaces.
Tips: Enter the object's mass in kg, applied force in Newtons, and angle in degrees (0-90). All values must be positive.
Q1: What happens when the angle is 0 degrees?
A: At 0° (pulling horizontally), sin(0)=0, so normal force equals just the object's weight (m×g).
Q2: What happens when the angle is 90 degrees?
A: At 90° (pulling straight up), sin(90)=1, so normal force is reduced by the full applied force (m×g - F).
Q3: Can the normal force be negative?
A: If the upward component of force exceeds the object's weight, the result suggests the object would lift off the surface.
Q4: How does this relate to friction?
A: Friction force depends on normal force, so pulling at an angle affects friction by changing the normal force.
Q5: What if I'm pushing instead of pulling?
A: For pushing downward at an angle, the formula would add the vertical component instead of subtracting.