Question

In the previous question, the modeling clay passenger would be prevented from toppling backward by?

1) a seatbelt but no shoulder belt
2) having an air bag in front
3) sitting in a chair with a head restraint
4) any of the above

Answer 1

A seatbelt without a shoulder belt can prevent a modeling clay passenger from toppling backward by extending the time over which a force is applied, reducing the force felt and restraining the body.

Step-by-step explanation:

The question pertains to what safety features would prevent a modeling clay passenger from toppling backward. Based on the principles of impulse and collision times, seatbelts are designed to extend the time over which the force is applied to a passenger's body, thereby reducing the force felt. A seatbelt without a shoulder belt can prevent a passenger from moving forward but isn't as effective at restraining the upper body from moving backward. Conversely, an airbag inflates to prevent a person from hitting the dashboard or steering wheel at a sudden stop, but it does not prevent backward motion. A chair with a head restraint can minimize whiplash by stopping the backward motion of the head, but it does not restrain the entire body. Therefore, the correct answer to what would prevent the modeling clay passenger from toppling backward is 1) a seatbelt but no shoulder belt.