A body will begin to move down an inclined plane if the angle of incli...
Inclined Plane and Friction
Inclined planes are used to move objects between different levels. When an object is placed on an inclined plane, it tends to slide down due to the gravitational force acting on it. However, the frictional force between the object and the inclined plane opposes the sliding motion.
Angle of Friction
The angle of friction, also known as the angle of repose, is the maximum angle at which an object placed on a surface can remain at rest without sliding down. The angle of friction depends on the nature of the surface and the weight of the object.
Angle of Inclination
The angle of inclination is the angle between the inclined plane and the horizontal plane. It determines the steepness of the inclined plane.
Relation between Angle of Inclination and Angle of Friction
If the angle of inclination of the plane is less than the angle of friction, the frictional force is greater than the component of the gravitational force acting down the plane. Therefore, the object remains at rest.
If the angle of inclination of the plane is equal to the angle of friction, the frictional force is just enough to balance the component of the gravitational force acting down the plane. Therefore, the object remains at rest.
If the angle of inclination of the plane is greater than the angle of friction, the component of the gravitational force acting down the plane is greater than the frictional force. Therefore, the object begins to move down the plane.
Therefore, the correct option is C, i.e., the body will begin to move down an inclined plane if the angle of inclination of the plane is greater than the angle of friction.
A body will begin to move down an inclined plane if the angle of incli...
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