The solution to the basic problem of a
block sliding down an incline plane. The problem
asks for the coeficient of friction needed to
stop the motion. A comparison of logical problem
solving and inverted problem solving is made.

SureMath
the math software for 21st century problem solving
was used to solve this problem.

For a kinematic solution of this problem see the previous
problem. Both the energy based solution and the kinematic
solution are a necessary part of learning to use
and understand physics.

For a valuable discussion of problem
solving see Problem-Solving Strategies in Physics
by Dave Van Domelen, 1996.
The problem solved on this page was adapted from
the thesis.The thesis includes a context-rich
version of this problem.

Please comment. Comments are appreciated and
contribute very much to developing
the problem solutions.

The problem solution was developed by
Howard C. McAllister
using SureMath.