Question

While walking on ice, one should take small steps to avoid slipping. This is because smaller steps ensure

• A. larger coefficient of friction
• B. smaller coefficient of friction
• C. larger normal force
• D. smaller Normal force

Answer 1

The correct option is C larger normal force

As we know ,
$f=\mu \times N$
Frictional force depends on coefficient of friction (roughness of surface) and the normal force (in case of ice the coefficient of friction is very small and it is independent of the normal force so independent of step size )

$f\propto N$
Case when u keep longer steps the angle of inclination of leg with vertical decreases and hence normal force decreases and so does the friction.

Case when u keep smaller steps the angle of inclination of leg with vertical increases and hence normal force increases and so does the friction.
so, smaller steps is taken to make sure the friction is larger