I'm trying to solve a problem where I have an object resting on an inclined plane, with the angle of the plan being alpha, and the weight being w. I'm having trouble figuring out how I can calculate the component of the weight parallel to the plane. I also want to find out the weight component perpendicular to the plane.
I don't want an outright answer, more of an explanation to help me understand.
Thanks!
Best Answer
Here's a quick sketch:
Gravity is the vector $u$. Its components in the plane and against the plane are $v$ and $w$ respectively. You want to find $v$.
The angle between the plane and horizontal is the same as the angle between $w$ and $u$, which allows you to find a simple trig relation to solve the problem.