Try it on paper first. A hint, the key idea and the worked solution are here when you need them.
A block rests on a board. The coefficient of static friction between them is . The board is tilted slowly.
On a slope at angle , split the weight: down the slope and into it, so . Sliding down a rough slope, friction acts up it:
A body at rest starts to slide when .
Have you tried it?
Work it out on paper first. It is fine to get stuck or make a mistake: that is how we learn. When you are ready, go through the solution one step at a time, and check each step against your own.
Given. .
Plan. At the limit, the pull down the slope equals the largest static friction.
Step 1. The condition. , so .
Step 2. Angle. .
Step 3. Double the mass. The mass cancels in Step 1, so the angle stays .
Answer: (a) . (b) Still .
Check. Both the pull and the friction grow with the mass, in the same proportion. So the balance does not change.
Watch out. A heavier block does not stick better. It is pulled harder down the slope too.
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