Question

Two miners are trying to push a stationary mine cart filled with gold. Miner A is exerting 25 N while miner B is exerting 20 N. However it is observed that the mine cart remained stationary despite their push. How much force does the road exert on the wheel of the cart?

a. 25 N

b. 45 N

c. Less than

45 N d. More than 25 N​

Answer 1

b. 45 N

Explanation:

The sum of the forces exerted by the two miners = 25 + 20

= 45 N

Since after applying a force of 45 N by the two miners the cart remained stationary, it implies that a resistance force of at least 45 N acts against their push. Thus, the force exerted by the road could be equal to 45 N or greater than 45 N.

Probably, if the sum of the forces applied is 46 N, the cart would move. Which depends on the value of resistance force applied by the road. Thus, the appropriate answer from the given option is B.

Since the force applied on the cart equals the resistance force exerted by the road, the cart would not move.