How can I move a chair with no external forces acting on it?

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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

5 Answers

Anonymous 0 Comments

You are moving the centre of mass in one direction by jerking your body and that movement overcomes the friction and moves the chair.

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