A scooter starting from rest moves with a constant acceleration for a time ∆t 1 , then with a constant velocity for the next ∆t 2 and finally any other part. with a constant deceleration for the next ∆t 3 to come to rest. A 500 N man sitting on the scooter behind the driver manages to stay at rest with respect to the scooter without touching. The force exerted by the seat on the man is

Question

Philoid · Accepted Answer

There is no relative movement between the man and the seat during the time ∆t_2. So, the normal force applied by the seat on the man is 500N only.

However, during the time ∆t₁ and ∆t₃ i.e. during acceleration and deacceleration respectively, the seat provides extra frictional force on the man in horizontal direction. Hence it will be greater than 500N.