What force does the dynamometer display?

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When two people pull on a dynamometer with equal forces of 25N, the device displays 25N due to the balance of forces. If only one person were pulling, the dynamometer would show zero, as it would move towards the person pulling. This scenario illustrates Newton's third Law of Motion, where every action has an equal and opposite reaction. Understanding this principle clarifies why the dynamometer reads the force exerted by both individuals. The discussion emphasizes the importance of grasping fundamental physics concepts for accurate interpretation of measurements.
Kamataat
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Hi! Really simple question:

Two people are pulling on the ends of a dynamometer, each with a force of 25N. What force does the dynamometer display?

Textbook answer: 25N

I'm having a difficult time understanding this conceptually. Could anybody explain why the answer is 25N?

Thanks,
Kamataat
 
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If the other person wasn't pulling back, the dynomometer, would simply move towards the one person pulling it. It would therefore record zero.
Having another person pulling back, is exactly the same as having one end secured to a wall/floor. Perhaps you can understand that idea better.

This is a question about understanding Newton's third Law of Motion. Do you know that?
 
Yes, it's clear now. Thanks!
 

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