1. What is Normal Force?

The normal force (N) is the component of a contact force that is perpendicular to the surface that an object contacts. It prevents objects from passing through each other and is equal in magnitude to the force pressing the surfaces together, but in the opposite direction.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the normal force equation:

Where:

• \( N \) — Normal force (N)
• \( m \) — Mass of the object (kg)
• \( g \) — Acceleration due to gravity (9.81 m/s²)
• \( F \) — Applied force (N)
• \( \theta \) — Angle of applied force (degrees)

Explanation: The equation accounts for both the gravitational force (mg) and the vertical component of any applied force (Fsinθ).

3. Importance of Normal Force Calculation

Details: Calculating normal force is essential for understanding friction (since friction depends on normal force), analyzing forces in mechanical systems, and solving problems in statics and dynamics.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter mass in kilograms, applied force in newtons, and angle in degrees (0-90). All values must be valid (mass > 0, force ≥ 0, angle between 0-90).

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What if the angle is 0 degrees?
A: At 0° (force applied horizontally), sin(0)=0, so N = mg. The applied force doesn't affect the normal force.

Q2: What if the angle is 90 degrees?
A: At 90° (force applied vertically upward), sin(90)=1, so N = mg - F. The applied force directly reduces the normal force.

Q3: Can normal force be negative?
A: In reality, no. If the calculation gives N < 0, it means the object would lift off the surface.

Q4: Does normal force always equal weight?
A: Only when there are no other vertical forces acting on the object.

Q5: How does this relate to friction?
A: Kinetic friction = μN, where μ is the coefficient of friction. Static friction ≤ μN.