Question

Why is it easier to pull a lawn roller than to push it?

• A. Pulling involves sliding friction.
• B. Pulling involves dry friction.
• C. Pulling increases the effective weight.
• D. Pulling decreases normal reaction.

Answer 1

Answer: (D)

Pulling decreases normal reaction.

In pushing, you apply force in inclined downward direction. This effectively increases the normal reaction of the lawn roller. The increased normal reaction implies a larger frictional force against which you must work. In case of pulling, the pulling force is applied in the upward direction which reduces normal reaction force and hence reduces frictional force. So force opposing the motion is reduced, hence pulling is easier.