question_answer

Why it is easier to open a tap with two fingers than with one finger?

Answer:

                With two fingers, we apply a couple whose moment is equal to the product of the force and perpendicular distance between the two fingers (which is equal to the length of the handle of the tap). When we apply force with one finger, an equal and opposite force of reaction acts at the axis of rotation. This results in a couple of smaller arm and hence lesser moment. So it is easier to open a tap with two fingers than with one finger.