I need to find the value of theta in the equation tan(theta)=0.5, where 0.5 is the coefficient of static friction. I attempted to extend it into tan(theta)=[N*(coefficient of static friction)=m*g*sin(theta)]/[N=m*g*cos(theta)], but I get lost from there.

Question

imstuck · Answer

Use the inverse tangent function on your calculator.  Make sure it is in degrees and hit "2nd" then "tan" then when the parenthesis pops up, put it .5 and you will get your angle theta.  Very simple to do this with a calculator.

imstuck · Answer

You should come up with an angle measure of 26.565 degrees

deepolisnoob · Answer

Thank you very much. I have been working for a while using free-body diagrams and extended formulas. This is very helpful.