That is - as well explained above - the foot action makes the starter gear slide towards the flywheel teeth, simultaneously closing the electrical contact needed to run the starter motor - both actions provided nowadays by the solenoid.
I remember I had some (much, indeed) fear about 60 yrs. ago, when starting (with left foot on the gas pedal) my Father's '38 Standard for the first driving lessons. Good times !
Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to all you, friends!
Fabio.
