Chapter 7, Problem 29A

Why is it easier to walk on a carpeted floor than on a smooth, polished floor?

To determine

The reason that it is easier to walk on a carpeted floor than on a smooth, polished floor.

Answer to Problem 29A

It is because of the more friction on carpeted floor due to which equal and opposite force will be exerted easily on the person walking.

Explanation of Solution

Introduction:

As per Newton’s third law of motion, for every force exerted there is an opposite and equal reaction.

When a person walks on a floor, the force is exerted by his foot on the floor (consider Newton’s second law of motion). But, if it is a smooth, polished floor then there will be less friction due to which equal and opposite force will not be exerted easily on the person and thereby walking on a smooth, polished floor becomes difficult.

Conclusion:

Hence, due to the ability of the carpeted floor of exerting an equal and opposite force on the person walking on it, it becomes easier to walk on it.