To move an object, which one is easier, push or pull? Explain

Explanation

When a body is pushed at an arbitrary angle `theta(0 " to " (pi)/(2))`, the applied force F can be resolved into two components as F `sin theta` parallel to the surface and F `cos theta` perpendicular to the surface as shown in Figure. The total downward force acting on the body is `mg+Fcos theta`. It implies that the normal force acting on the body increases. Since there is no acceleration along the vertical direction the normal force N is equal to
`N_("push")=mg+F cos theta" "...(1)`
As a result the maximal static friction also increases and is equal to
`f_(s)^("max")=N_("push")=mu_(s)(mg+Fcos theta)" "...(2)`
Equation (2) shows that a greater force needs to be applied to push the object into motion.

When an object is pulled at an angle `theta`, the applied force is resolved into two components as shown in Figure. The total downward force acting on the object is
`N_("pull")=mg+F cos theta" " ...(3)`

Equation (3) shows that the normal force is less than `N_("push")`. From equations (1) and (3), it is easier to pull an object than to push to make it move.