Friction – Meaning, Types, and Effects

What is Friction?
Friction is a force that resists the motion of one object over another.
In simple words – It’s the force that makes things slow down or stop when they rub against each other .

Why Friction Happens?

• Surfaces, even if they look smooth, have tiny bumps and grooves.
• When two surfaces touch, these bumps interlock and resist movement.

Types of Friction:

1. Static Friction

   • Acts when an object is at rest.
   • Prevents the object from starting to move.
   • Example: Pushing a heavy box that doesn’t move at first.

2. Sliding Friction

   • Acts when an object slides over another surface.
   • Example: A book sliding on a table.

3. Rolling Friction

   • Acts when an object rolls over a surface.
   • Example: Wheels of a bicycle moving on the road.

4. Fluid Friction (Drag)

   • Acts when an object moves through a fluid (liquid or gas).
   • Example: Air resistance on a moving car.

Advantages of Friction:

• Helps us walk without slipping.
• Allows vehicles to move on roads.
• Helps in writing (pen on paper).

Disadvantages of Friction:

• Causes wear and tear of moving parts.
• Wastes energy as heat.
• Slows down moving objects.

Summary:

Friction is a resisting force that can be helpful (walking, driving) or harmful (wear, heat).
It is necessary for many activities but also causes energy loss.