Answer to Question #156151 in Physics for Shalize Dookie

Question

A child, sitting on a blanket, falls backward when the blanket is given a sharp tug. Clearly explain the physics behind this observation.

Answer 1

According to Newton's first law, all bodies have inertia: a property caused by the presence of mass that allows bodies to resist the change in their motion. So, when someone pulls the blanket, the force of friction under baby's butt makes him or her follow this force, while inertia resists this motion, which leads to falling backward