Final answer:
To find the normal force during downward acceleration less than gravity (g), consider if the object is on an incline and the effects of friction. Normally, on a flat, stationary surface, normal force equals weight (N = mg). On an incline, or with friction, normal force calculations must account for these additional factors and kinematics and dynamics principles.
Step-by-step explanation:
To find the normal force of an object experiencing a downward acceleration less than g (the acceleration due to gravity), you should consider factors like whether the object is on an incline or a flat surface. If the object is on a flat surface and not accelerating downward, the normal force is simply the weight of the object, which is calculated by N = mg, where m is the mass and g is the acceleration due to gravity, typically 9.8 m/s².
However, if the object is accelerating downward at a rate less than g, the normal force would be reduced accordingly. If an object is on an inclined plane and friction is negligible, its normal force will be less than its full weight because the weight of the object is split into components perpendicular and parallel to the plane. When considering friction, such as a 45.0 N force opposing motion, this also impacts the net force acting on the object and consequently affects the normal force and acceleration.
Key Concepts:
The normal force can be less than the object's weight under certain conditions, such as inclines or acceleration.
For a non-accelerating object on a horizontal surface, N = mg.
When solving problems with weight and acceleration, you must take into account kinematics and dynamics.