Physics

Physics

Problem

A wooden block begins to slide when an adjustable ramp on Earth reaches an angle of 25∘25^\circ. The same block–ramp combination is taken to the Moon, where the gravitational field strength is about one-sixth that on Earth. Which of the following best describes the angle at which the block will first slide on the Moon? a) It will be greater than 25∘25^\circ, because the weaker gravitational field decreases the component of weight parallel to the plane. b) It will still be about 25∘25^\circ, because this angle depends only on the surfaces in contact. c) It will be less than 25∘25^\circ, because the weaker gravitational field reduces the normal force and thus the maximum static friction. d) It will be about 4∘4^\circ (roughly one–sixth of 25∘25^\circ), since the threshold angle is assumed to scale directly with the gravitational field strength.

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