How does one find the normal force when not at constant velocity or at rest?

Thread starter Blockeus
Start date Nov 20, 2016
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Constant Constant velocity Force Normal Normal force Physics Rest Velocity

In summary, the normal force is the force exerted by a surface on an object in contact with it, always perpendicular to the surface. It is important because it helps calculate the net force and understand the object's motion and stability. To find it when the object is not at constant velocity or rest, use the equation F(net) = ma. It is not always equal to the weight, only when the object is at rest or moving at a constant velocity. The normal force cannot be negative, as it is always perpendicular to the surface and a reaction force to other forces acting on the object.

Nov 20, 2016

Blockeus

How does one find the normal force when the object is not at constant movement or at rest.

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Nov 20, 2016

robphy

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Use Newton's Second Law... N is an unknown to be determined.

Related to How does one find the normal force when not at constant velocity or at rest?

1. What is the normal force?

The normal force is the force exerted by a surface on an object that is in contact with it. It is always perpendicular to the surface and prevents the object from falling through the surface.

2. Why is the normal force important?

The normal force is important because it allows us to calculate the net force on an object in contact with a surface. This helps us understand the motion and stability of the object.

3. How do I find the normal force when the object is not at constant velocity or at rest?

In such cases, you can use the equation F(net) = ma, where F(net) is the net force acting on the object, m is the mass of the object, and a is the acceleration. The normal force will be one of the forces included in the net force calculation.

4. Is the normal force always equal to the weight of an object?

No, the normal force is not always equal to the weight of an object. It is only equal to the weight when the object is at rest or moving at a constant velocity in a horizontal direction. In other cases, the normal force may be greater or less than the weight depending on the direction and magnitude of the other forces acting on the object.

5. Can the normal force be negative?

No, the normal force is always a positive value. It is a reaction force to the weight or other forces acting on the object, and it is always perpendicular to the surface. A negative value would indicate that the force is acting in the opposite direction, which is not possible for the normal force.