Can you open a heavy door more easily if you push at the handle and the hinges? why?

Question

This is a confusing question from my grade 12 physics class.

please help and explain why...

Answer 1

Do you mean at the handle OR at the hinges? The hinges provide resistance, I would think, or is this a trick question in that you have to turn the k**b?  :)  My husband thinks it has to do with leverage.

Answer 2

You will be able to open it easier if you push at the handle because of torque.

Answer 3

Torque = Force times Leverarm (or distance, however you want to say it)

So the torque that is required to open the door will be greatest when you are using a force furthest from the hinges... thus you can open a door more easily by pushing at the handle.

Try it out in real life with one finger.  You will be able to tell which is harder.