Essential University Physics: Volume 1 (4th Edition)

Published by Pearson
ISBN 10: 0-134-98855-8
ISBN 13: 978-0-13498-855-9

Chapter 12 - For Thought and Discussion - Page 214: 5

Answer

You are more likely to slip when you stand near the top.

Work Step by Step

The distance you are from the ground increases as you move up the latter. This in turn leads to a greater torque being exerted, for distance from the axis of rotation (which in this case is the bottom of the latter) is directly related to torque. Thus, the latter is most likely to slip when you are at the top of the latter.
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