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Friction
What is friction?
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Friction is a force that opposes the relative motion or attempts to move two surfaces in contact with each other. Whenever two objects come into contact and there is a tendency for one object to slide or move past the other, friction acts to resist that motion. It occurs due to the interaction between the microscopic irregularities on the surfaces of the objects.
Friction can be categorized into two main types:
Static friction: This type of friction acts when there is no relative motion between the surfaces in contact. It prevents an object from starting to move when a force is applied to it. The static frictional force increases as the applied force increases, up to a maximum value called the limiting friction. Once the applied force exceeds the limiting friction, the object will start moving.
Kinetic friction: This type of friction acts when there is relative motion between the surfaces in contact. Once an object is in motion, kinetic friction opposes its motion, acting in the direction opposite to its velocity. The magnitude of the kinetic frictional force depends on the nature of the surfaces and the normal force pressing the surfaces together.
Friction has both advantages and disadvantages. On one hand, it allows us to walk, drive vehicles, write on paper, and perform various tasks by providing the necessary grip and traction. On the other hand, friction can also cause wear and tear, generate heat, and reduce the efficiency of mechanical systems. Engineers and scientists often study friction to understand its effects and develop ways to minimize its negative consequences or harness it for specific purposes, such as in brakes or tires.