Chapter 17, Problem 42A

To determine

To explain: The reason for not falling through the floor.

Explanation of Solution

Introduction:

Atom is smallest unit of any matter. Group of atoms create a structure.

When two atoms are placed closed to each other then at that time they are influenced by two forces, these are attractive and repulsive forces. Atoms in any structure are arranged in such a way that attractive and repulsive forces balance each other, and it is held firmly in that position. In any structure like floor, atoms are locked together by attractive and repulsive forces. When an external atom tried to make them apart, it also reach in equilibrium at certain point. To overcome this equilibrium position a strong force is needed, which is very large in comparison to the gravitational force pulling a person’s foot down to the floor. Hence a person does not fall through the floor made of group of atoms.