Calculating Horizontal Forces in a Tug-of-War Using Newton's Third Law

In summary, the question asks what horizontal force each person exerts against the ground in a tug-of-war where both participants are pulling with a force of 250N and remaining motionless. The solution involves drawing a free body diagram for one person and using Newton's laws to find the pull force from the rope and the ground force acting on the person. This process should be repeated for the other person, and the horizontal force on the ground can be found by using Newton's laws as well.
  • #1
RepoMan
6
0

Homework Statement


In a tug-of-war between two physics types, each pulls on the rope with force of 250N. If both remain motionless, what horizontal force does each exert against the ground?


The Attempt at a Solution


I can find the tension of the rope, but I am not to sure how to find out horizontal forces.
 
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  • #2
Draw a free body diagram diagram of one person. Newton 3 should help you find the pull force acting on that person from the rope, and using another of Newton's laws should give you the ground force acting on person. Then you will need to find the horizontal force of the person on the groind. Do the same for the other person, and please show your attempt.
 

Related to Calculating Horizontal Forces in a Tug-of-War Using Newton's Third Law

1. What is Newton's Third Law?

Newton's Third Law states that for every action, there is an equal and opposite reaction. This means that when one object exerts a force on another object, the second object exerts a force back on the first object that is equal in magnitude but opposite in direction.

2. How does Newton's Third Law apply to everyday life?

Newton's Third Law can be observed in many everyday situations, such as when you push against a wall and feel the wall pushing back on you with the same amount of force. It also explains why we feel a recoil when we shoot a gun or why a moving car will continue to move forward even after the brakes are applied.

3. Can Newton's Third Law be violated?

No, Newton's Third Law is a fundamental law of physics and has never been observed to be violated. It is a principle that holds true in all situations and cannot be broken.

4. How does Newton's Third Law relate to forces in motion?

Newton's Third Law applies to all forces, including those in motion. When an object is in motion, it is constantly interacting with other objects through forces. According to Newton's Third Law, for every force acting on the object, there is an equal and opposite force acting back on it.

5. What are some examples of Newton's Third Law in action?

Some examples of Newton's Third Law in action include a rocket launching into space, a person jumping off a diving board, a bird flying in the air, and a person rowing a boat. In all of these situations, there are equal and opposite forces at play according to Newton's Third Law.

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