If I sit on a chair with my legs off the ground and I suddenly jerk my body forward, I move the chair forward. Why am I able to do this? Static friction might be a factor but if both the chair and I are one system how did I start moving in the first place? Are there any other factors at play besides static friction? any input is appreciated, thanks.
In: Physics
You and the chair may be part of the same system, but you’re generating energy within the system by swinging your legs (chemical energy gets converted to mechanical energy). This energy has to go somewhere, and it’s enough to overcome static friction by a small amount.
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