Chapter 2, Problem 33A

Nicole stands on a bathroom scale and reads her weight. Does the reading change if she stands on one foot instead of both feet? Defend your answer.

To determine

To identify: Whether the reading of the bathroom scale changes if person N stand on one foot instead of both feet.

Answer to Problem 33A

No, the reading of the scale will not change.

Explanation of Solution

Introduction:

When a person stands on a bathroom scale, then its weight acts in downward direction while the support force will act in upward direction. Then, the scaling machine provides reading using its own mechanism.

Now, when person N stands on a bathroom scale on her one foot instead of both feet, her weight acting in downward direction will not change only the pressure exerted will change. Thus, the support force acting in upward direction will also not change. So, the bathroom scale reading will also not change.

Conclusion:

Therefore, the reading of the bathroom scale will remain same when person N will stand on one foot instead of both feet.