Final answer:
To determine the normal reaction and friction forces on the ladder at its base, we need to consider the forces acting on the ladder. The magnitude of the normal reaction force at the base of the ladder is equal to the weight of the ladder and the person.
Step-by-step explanation:
In order to determine the normal reaction and friction forces on the ladder at its base, we need to consider the forces acting on the ladder.
At the base of the ladder, the normal reaction force is the force exerted by the ground on the ladder perpendicular to the surface of the ground. It is equal in magnitude and opposite in direction to the weight of the ladder and the person. The friction force is the force opposing the motion of the ladder against the ground, and in this case, since the ground is assumed to be frictionless, the friction force is zero.
Therefore, the magnitude of the normal reaction force at the base of the ladder is equal to the weight of the ladder and the person, which is the sum of their masses times the acceleration due to gravity.