This Java applet demonstrates a motion on an inclined plane with constant velocity and the corresponding forces.

The "Reset" button brings the block to its initial position (outside of the picture). You can start or stop and continue the simulation with the other two buttons. Depending on the selected radio button the applet will show a springscale from which you can read the necessary force, or the vectors of the weight force with its two components (parallel and normal to the plane), the normal force, the frictional force and the force which is necessary for the motion.

The angle of inclination, the weight of the block and the coefficient of friction can be changed within certain limits. The applet will calculate the magnitudes of the mentioned forces.

Physics Applets (Overview)

URL: http://home.a-city.de/walter.fendt/physengl/inclplane.htm
© Walter Fendt, February 24, 1999
Last modification: March 27, 1999

This applet was developed at the suggestion of my Spanish colleague José Villasuso.