A block rests on an inclined plane with enough friction to prevent it from sliding down. To start the block moving is it easier to push it up the plane or down the plane? Why?

Short Answer

Expert verified

To start the block moving, it is easier to push it down the plane.

Step by step solution

01

Significance of the friction

The friction is described as the force that resists the relative motion of the solid surfaces. The frictional force is equal to the product of the frictional coefficient and the normal force.

02

Determination of the pushing of the block

When the block is being pushed down an inclined surface, then the static frictional force acts that is helpful for pushing the block down an inclined plane. But when the block is pulled up, the frictional component does not work and it takes a large amount of force to push the block.

Thus, to start the block moving, it is easier to push it down the plane.

Unlock Step-by-Step Solutions & Ace Your Exams!

  • Full Textbook Solutions

    Get detailed explanations and key concepts

  • Unlimited Al creation

    Al flashcards, explanations, exams and more...

  • Ads-free access

    To over 500 millions flashcards

  • Money-back guarantee

    We refund you if you fail your exam.

Over 30 million students worldwide already upgrade their learning with Vaia!

One App. One Place for Learning.

All the tools & learning materials you need for study success - in one app.

Get started for free

Most popular questions from this chapter

See all solutions

Recommended explanations on Physics Textbooks

View all explanations

What do you think about this solution?

We value your feedback to improve our textbook solutions.

Study anywhere. Anytime. Across all devices.

Sign-up for free