Chapter 11, Problem 20PCE

Predict/Explain Suppose the person in Example 11-11 climbs higher on the ladder. (a) As a result, is the ladder more likely, less likely, or equally likely to slip? (b) Choose the best explanation from among the following:

1. I.            The forces are the same regardless of the person’s position.
2. II.            The magnitude of f₂ must increase as the person moves upward.
3. III.            When the person is higher, the ladder presses down harder on the floor.