Physics for Scientists and Engineers: A Strategic Approach with Modern Physics (4th Edition)

Published by Pearson
ISBN 10: 0133942651
ISBN 13: 978-0-13394-265-1

Chapter 6 - Dynamics I: Motion Along a Line - Conceptual Questions - Page 153: 12

Answer

The normal force of the table on the book is larger than $mg$.

Work Step by Step

When the hand presses down on the book, there are three forces acting on the book. The force of gravity points straight down. The normal force from the hand points straight down. The normal force from the table points straight up. Since the book is at rest, the net force on the book is zero. Therefore, the magnitude of the normal force from the table is equal to the sum of the normal force from the hand and the force of gravity (which is $mg$). The normal force of the table on the book is larger than $mg$.
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