Final answer:
The formula for normal force on an inclined surface is N = mg cos θ, where 'N' is the normal force, 'm' is mass, 'g' is the acceleration due to gravity, and θ is the incline angle. The normal force supports the object against gravity and varies with the angle of the incline.
Step-by-step explanation:
When an object rests on an inclined surface, the formula for the normal force is N = mg cos θ, where 'N' represents the normal force, 'm' is the mass of the object, 'g' is the acceleration due to gravity, and θ is the angle of the incline. The weight of the object, represented by 'mg', is resolved into two components when on an incline: one that is perpendicular to the surface (θ) and the other parallel. The perpendicular component, which is equal in magnitude and opposite in direction to the normal force, is given by mg cos θ. Meanwhile, the parallel component, mg sin θ, is responsible for the object's acceleration down the incline if friction is absent or overcome.
The normal force provides support to the object against gravity, acting perpendicular to and away from the surface. It's essential to note that the normal force can be different from the object's weight when the object is on an incline, unlike on a horizontal surface where the normal force and the weight are equal.