What direction does a tricycle initially move when pulling a rope to the left?

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The discussion centers on the mechanics of a tricycle's movement when a rope is pulled to the left. The consensus is that the tricycle initially moves backward to the right due to the torque exerted on the wheel, which rotates around its point of contact with the ground. This movement is explained through Newton's third law, where the force exerted by the wheel on the ground results in an equal and opposite reaction. Participants confirmed that understanding these principles is crucial for accurately predicting the tricycle's motion.

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http://img98.imageshack.us/my.php?image=tricyclejz7.jpg

A. If you pull to the left on the rope above, which way does the tricycle initially move?

B. Why? Explain your answer above. (4 key concepts)

p.s for Q A, i believe the tricycle will go backward (to the right) since the rope is located below the axis of wheel.

but for Q B, i don't really know what to answer. it is extra credit point thing due 2morrow Dec 7th, so if sum1 could just tell me the answer, it will be helpful to me.

thx
soe
 
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As the wheel rotates around its point of contact with the ground pushes horizontally on the ground due to the torque exerted on the wheel. In which horizontal direction will the wheel push on the ground? How does Newton's third law come into play here concerning this pushing force?

We find a similar situation concerning the downwards force (its weight) that the wheel exerts on the ground. The ground responds with the normal force.
 
thanks andrevdh... i got full extra credit points for that.. really appreciate it..

donald1403:smile:
 

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