AP Physics C: Mechanics : Normal Force

Study concepts, example questions & explanations for AP Physics C: Mechanics

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Example Questions

Example Question #1 : Forces

Weightlessness is experienced when the normal force equals __________.

Possible Answers:

a negative value 

zero

the force due to gravity 

the mass of the object

Correct answer:

zero

Explanation:

"Weightlessness" is analogous to free-fall (neglecting air resistance), during which the only force on an object is the force of gravity. When normal force becomes zero, the object loses physical contact with the surface.

When normal force is equal to the force of gravity, the object is in equilibrium and the net vertical force is zero. This results in zero acceleration, but does not result in "weightlessness." Mass is not a force, and negative force values merely indicate relative direction (assuming correct calculations)

Example Question #1 : Normal Force

A book of mass 1kg is held to a vertical wall by a person's hand applying a 20N force directly toward the wall. The wall has a static friction coefficient of 0.3 and a kinetic friction coefficient of 0.2. With the book held at rest, what the is frictional force keeping the book from sliding down the wall? 

Possible Answers:

Correct answer:

Explanation:

Frictional force is calculated using the normal force and the friction coefficient. Since the book is at rest (not in motion), we use the coefficient of static friction.

The normal force will be equal and opposite the force pushing directly into the surface; in this case, that means the normal force will be 20N.

Solve for the force of friction:

Example Question #1 : Normal Force

Possible Answers:

Correct answer:

Explanation:

Normalwrope

Example Question #1 : Forces

Possible Answers:

Correct answer:

Explanation:

Normal

Example Question #1 : Forces

Possible Answers:

Correct answer:

Explanation:

Normal

Example Question #81 : Mechanics Exam

Possible Answers:

Correct answer:

Explanation:

Normal

Example Question #81 : Ap Physics C

Possible Answers:

Correct answer:

Explanation:

Normalwrope

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