A question related to physics?

Question

I am 6'4" and weigh 240 lbs. and I can easily lift 250 pounds. If I sit on a computer chair weighing 10 pounds, why can I not lift myself into the air?

Answer 1

When you are lifting a weight a force is also exerted in the opposite direction. If you are sitting on a chair and try to lift yourself you are also exerting an equal downward force. This a broad generalization of Newton's 3rd Law.

Just think if we could all just lift ourselves up we wouldn't need airplanes

As the previous answer states if you pull yourself up on a hook then the counteracting force is on the ceiling and you can lift yourself.

Answer 2

centers of gravity....?... maybe..

Answer 3

This has nothing to with physics, it has everything to do with trying to be funny. In any event, here is what you have to do. Secure a hook to the ceiling at a height you can reach from the chair, tie yourself to the chair, reach up and get a good grip on the hook. You know where to go from there.