Chapter 8, Problem Q8.1DQ

In splitting logs with a hammer and wedge, is a heavy hammer more effective than a lighter hammer? Why?

To determine

The most effective hammer on the wedge.

Explanation of Solution

The net force acting on the particle is the rate of change of momentum of the particle.

$\begin{array}{l}\overrightarrow{F}=\frac{d\overrightarrow{p}}{dt}\\ \overrightarrow{F}=\frac{d\left(m\overrightarrow{v}\right)}{dt}\\ \overrightarrow{F}\propto m\end{array}$

• $\overrightarrow{F}$ is the net force acting on the wedge.
• $\overrightarrow{p}$ is the momentum of the hammer.
• $t$ is the time.

Conclusion:

The force exerted by the wedge is directly proportional to the weight of the hammer. Due to this reason the force exerted by the heaver hammer is more than the force exerted by the lighter hammer.