Question map
Statement I : Pulling a lawn roller is easier than pushing it. Statement II : Pushing increases the apparent weight and hence the force of friction.
Explanation
Statement I is true because pulling a lawn roller requires less effort than pushing it. When pushing, the applied force is directed at a downward angle, creating a vertical component that adds to the roller's weight. This increases the normal reaction force (apparent weight) exerted by the ground. Since the force of friction is directly proportional to the normal reaction, pushing results in higher frictional resistance [1]. Conversely, when pulling, the vertical component of the force acts upward, opposing gravity and reducing the normal reaction force. This decrease in apparent weight leads to a corresponding reduction in the force of friction, making the roller easier to move. Therefore, Statement II correctly identifies that pushing increases apparent weight and friction, providing the physical explanation for why pulling is easier.
Sources
- [1] Science ,Class VIII . NCERT(Revised ed 2025) > Chapter 5: Exploring Forces > Activity 5.3: Let us investigate > p. 68