Forces on an inclined plane

About this lab: Forces on an inclined plane

A block on a hinged ramp with its free-body diagram and the weight resolved into W sin θ down the slope and W cos θ into it, friction holding the block until tan θ passes the coefficient of friction, the block released to slide with a = g (sin θ − μ cos θ) and its v-t graph, and the block tied over a pulley to a hanging mass that balances it or drags it up the slope.

Resolve the weight of a block on a slope, watch friction hold it or let it slide, and tie it to a hanging mass over a pulley

Forces on an inclined plane is a free, browser-based simulation for Cambridge International AS & A Level Physics 9702 (topic 4 Forces, density and pressure). The course is assessed in Paper 1 (multiple choice), Paper 2 (AS structured), Paper 3 (advanced practical), Paper 4 (A Level structured) and Paper 5 (planning, analysis and evaluation). There are 3 tabs, each a self-contained experiment with its own controls and live readings, and nothing to install: it runs on a laptop, tablet or classroom projector.

Syllabus coverage

• 4.1 Turning effects of forces: Centre of gravity as the single point where weight acts; Moment of a force: definition and application; Couples and torque. Lessons: Turning effects of forces.
• 4.2 Equilibrium of forces: The principle of moments; Conditions for equilibrium: no resultant force or torque; Vector triangle for coplanar forces in equilibrium. Lessons: Equilibrium of forces.
• 4.3 Density and pressure: Density and pressure: definitions and use; Deriving hydrostatic pressure: Δp = ρgΔh; Upthrust and Archimedes' principle: F = ρgV. Lessons: Density and pressure.

Full syllabus map: AS Level Physics 9702 topic 4.

How to use this simulation

1. 1. Free-body diagram: resolving the weight.
2. 2. Sliding down the slope.
3. 3. Tied to a hanging mass.
4. The buttons at the end of the tab strip give the scene the whole window (Full screen, Hide controls) and, on a dark stage, a projector-friendly palette (Light scene). Many scenes also have drag handles: drag them to change the set-up directly.

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