How Does Pulling on a Wagon Make It Move?
What happens when you pull on a wagon resting on the sidewalk?
A. The wagon does not move because the wagon applies more force to you than you apply to the wagon.
B. The wagon moves because you apply more friction to the ground.
C. The wagon does not move because the force you apply to the wagon is equal to the force it applies to you.
D. The wagon moves because you apply more force to the wagon than it applies to you.
Answer:
The wagon moves because you apply more force to the wagon than it applies to you.
When you pull on a wagon, you are exerting a force on it. According to Newton's first law of motion, an object will only change its state of motion if a net force is applied to it. In this case, the force you apply to the wagon overcomes the opposing forces such as friction from the ground and the weight of the wagon.
Newton's second law of motion states that force causes mass to accelerate. This means that when you pull the wagon with a force greater than the resistance, the wagon will accelerate in the direction of the force applied.
It's important to note that the misconception about equal forces preventing motion is based on a misunderstanding of Newton's third law, which states that for every action, there is an equal and opposite reaction. However, this law applies to forces acting on different bodies and does not hinder the motion of the wagon when you pull it.
In conclusion, pulling forces make the wagon move when they overcome the forces of resistance (friction and weight). This phenomenon is governed by Newton's laws of motion and illustrates the principles of force and acceleration.