A student chooses coordinate axes that are oriented parallel and perpendicular to an…
PHYSICS · Single correct · CBSE · Physics · Motion in a Plane · Motion in a Plane
Problem
A student chooses coordinate axes that are oriented parallel and perpendicular to an inclined plane when analyzing the motion of a block sliding down the plane. Which of the following best explains why this choice of axes is advantageous?
(a) It eliminates the need to calculate the normal force exerted by the plane on the block.
(b) It makes the weight of the block act entirely along the incline, so no components are needed at all.
(c) Only one force—the block’s weight—must be resolved into components, reducing algebraic complexity.
(d) It guarantees that the net force along the incline is zero, showing that the block is in equilibrium.