Question

1. a can of worms sits on a table. why doesnt the can move if the force of gravity is acting on it?

Explanation:

Step1: Analyze forces acting on the can

The can has a gravitational force ($F_g = mg$, where $m$ is mass and $g$ is acceleration due to gravity) acting downward.

Step2: Identify the normal force

The table exerts a normal force ($F_N$) upward on the can.

Step3: Apply Newton's first law

According to Newton's first law, if the net force ($F_{net}=F_g - F_N$) on an object is zero, the object remains at rest. Since the can is on a table, $F_N=F_g$, so $F_{net} = 0$.

Answer:

The normal force exerted by the table on the can balances the force of gravity. So the net force on the can is zero, and according to Newton's first law of motion, the can remains at rest.